Rajasthan Royals (RR) are all set to pay a special tribute to Australia’s spin wizard Shane Warne. The Australian veteran led the franchise to their maiden and only T20 title in the inaugural edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2008.
Under Warne, the Royals defeated MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by three wickets in the final to lift the prestigious trophy. RR will be playing against Mumbai Indians at the DY Patil Stadium, where they won the title 14 years back.
Warne left the world last month after a suspected heart attack, and thus the Jaipur-based franchise has decided to celebrate his legacy. He is one of the greatest to have ever played the gentlemen’s game, with 708 and 293 wickets from 145 Tests and 194 One Day Internationals, respectively.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has also supported the team’s decision. It is learned that the Rajasthan Royals players will have special SW23 initials on their jerseys.
Also, a tribute gallery has been formed in a special area at the DY Patil Stadium. In addition, Shane Warne’s brother Jason will be a part of the grand celebrations in Navi Mumbai.
Rajasthan Royals have released a special statement on their official social media handles for the same.
“We will be celebrating the life and career of Shane Warne - the first Royal and a legend of the game, in our upcoming match against Mumbai Indians.
It was at the DY Patil Stadium in 2008 where the charismatic Warnie led an unfancied but spirited team of Royals to become the first-ever champions of the IPL. Now, with his memories in our hearts, we go back to the same venue to commemorate the Spin King for his immense contribution to cricket and to our lives here at the Royals.
Not only was Warnie a once-in-a-generation match-winner, but also someone who touched innumerable lives and inspired generations of cricketers. His passion for the game and his craft, the love and warmth he had for his family, friends, teammates, and even rivals, and his quest to give back to the game he so dearly loved - these were qualities that made him stand out. This is what made him a true Royal,” the statement by Royals read.