Rajasthan Royals appoint Andrew McDonald as head coach

Rajasthan Royals have roped in former Australian all-rounder Andrew McDonald as their head coach on a three-year contract, the franchise announced on Monday (October 21). 

McDonald represented Delhi Daredevils in 2009 and 2011 before moving to Royal Challengers Bangalore for the 2012 and 2013th edition. He also worked with Bangalore as their bowling coach and will now be replacing Paddy Upton. 

“I’m delighted to join the Royals family. 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,” said McDonald. 

McDonald also worked with Victoria and helped them win the Sheffield Shield in his first year as coach. It was under him, Melbourne Renegades won the BBL title this year. 

“We are delighted to appoint Andrew as our Head Coach. He shares our belief of discovering potential and championing dreams and is aligned with our vision to continue to drive innovation in the IPL. Andrew will be preparing for the season by sharing experiences and best practices with exceptional coaches in other sports and will be visiting India in the near future to meet the Royals team, both on and off the field,” Ranjit Barthakur, the executive chairman of the Rajasthan Royals said. 

“Andrew’s innovative, forward thinking nature, along with his experience in the IPL and success in other leagues is why we have selected him as Head Coach to help us drive long term success. He is data focused and an impressive man manager who remains well versed with the rigours of modern day cricket,” head of cricket Zubin Bharucha, who was part of the panel that picked a coach, said. 

After winning the inaugural edition in 2008, Rajasthan have never made it to the finals of the IPL.