New Delhi: Former Australian cricketer Andrew McDonald has been brought in as the head coach of Rajasthan Royals on a three-year contract. McDonald, who has previously played in IPL for Delhi Daredevils (2009 and 2011) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (2012 and 2013), also comes with coaching experience in the league – having been the bowling coach of Virat Kohli’s side. McDonald comes in to replace Paddy Upton, who was only appointed before the start of the previous season.
McDonald, who has significant experience of coaching will have to take Rajasthan to the epitome of success as they aim their second IPL title. Notably, Rajasthan Royals won the inaugural edition of the competition in 2008 under the leadership of Shane Warne.
This will be Andrew McDonald’s second stint in the IPL. He has also worked with Royal Challengers Bangalore last year; however, the team management replaced the support staff. Bangalore roped in Mike Hesson as their director of Cricket Operations.
Speaking on his appointment, Andrew McDonald stated that he is keen to take up the new challenge with the Rajasthan side. He also said that he can’t wait to associate with the best players in the biggest league across the world.
“I’m delighted to join the Royals family,” said McDonald. “It’s a great honour to take on this responsibility. The Rajasthan Royals is a new, exciting challenge for me, and I can’t wait to get started working with our world-class players and coaches in one of the biggest sporting leagues in the world,” he added.
Rajasthan Royals, the inaugural IPL champions, had finished at the seventh spot in 2019 edition after registering five wins and ending with 11 points at the end of the league stage.
