IPL 2020 News: Andrew McDonald elected Rajasthan Royals’ head coach for IPL 2020

Andrew McDonald elected Rajasthan Royals’ head coach: The former Australian all-rounder has been roped in by the Rajasthan franchise.

Having won the inaugural season of the Indian Premier League in 2008, Rajasthan Royals have registered mixed performances in the tournament over the years. While they did enter the playoffs on three more occasions over the years, the magic of 2008 seems to be missing.

After returning from a two-year ban last year, Royals ended the league stage as the fourth-ranked team. However, things weren’t the best for them this year as they ended the league stage as the seven-ranked team.

Andrew McDonald elected Rajasthan Royals’ head coach for IPL 2020

In a bid to once again lift the title, Rajasthan have replaced head coach Paddy Upton with former Australia all-rounder Andrew McDonald. It is worth mentioning that Big Bash League franchise Melbourne Renegades won the trophy this season under McDonald’s coaching.

As far as the IPL is concerned, McDonald has been Royal Challengers Bangalore’s bowling coach in the past. During his playing days, McDonald had represented Delhi Daredevils and Royal Challengers.

“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,” McDonald said following his appointment.

Having made his national debut in 2009, McDonald played four Tests matches for Australia in the same year. In the T20 circuit, McDonald played for Sydney Thunders in the Big Bash League till 2016.

It was earlier reported that Royals would trade captain Ajinkya Rahane with Delhi Capitals. However, the development hasn’t seen the daylight till date.