Australian Andrew McDonald has been removed as the head coach of the Rajasthan Royals ahead of the 2021 Indian Premier League.
McDonald had signed a three-year contract with the franchise in 2019. That arrangement has been terminated, though, after just one season with Rajasthan.finished at the bottom
The Royals won six matches in the 2020 IPL and of the standings.
Well Wishes for McDonald
“Everyone at Rajasthan Royals would like to thank Andrew for his efforts towards the IPL season 13. He coached the team during an incredibly challenging and restricted period,” said Rajasthan Royals chief operations officer Jake Lush McCrum.
“We would like to wish him all the very best for his future endeavours with the Australian men's cricket team and the Birmingham Phoenix in The Hundred.”
Penney Joins Royals
Former Sri Lanka head coach Trevor Penney will work alongside new Rajasthan director of cricket Kumar Sangakkara in McDonald's absence. Penney is currently working with the West Indian ODI and T20I teams.
“It's fantastic to have Trevor on board here at Rajasthan Royals. He's very experienced and understands the game very well which I am sure will help contribute to the players' and squad's overall growth,” added Sangakkara.
“I'm confident Trevor's appointment is going to set us on the right pathway and it will be wonderful to have him work with our squad.”
Samson Replaces Smith
The Royals recently appointed Indian Sanju Samson captain. He succeeded former captain Steven Smith of Australia.
“It's great to bring in someone with a coaching CV like that of Trevor. He's one of the most well-travelled coaches in the modern game and has had considerable success across the globe,” concluded McCrum.
“Kumar and Trevor have a really strong relationship after sharing a successful period together with the Sri Lankan national team. We are hopeful of an exciting season ahead under the able leadership of Kumar alongside a strategy group including Sanju and Trevor.”
Morris With 2008 Champions
The Royals won the inaugural IPL in 2008. They have not claimed a title since. England stars Jofra Archer, Jos Buttler and Ben Stokes are in their squad for the IPL 2021.
“I have no doubt they're three of the most valuable players in the world. They're three players who know how to deal with pressure, who've proven time and time again their excellence out in the middle,” said Sangakkara.
South African all-rounder Chris Morris has also joined them for a record fee.
