We can go from underdogs to title favourites, comments Andrew McDonald

Andrew McDonald has been given the batton of guiding the players of the team which last won the title in 2008. With Steve Smith appointed as the captain for 2020 edition, the Aussie duo will look to change the fate of the franchise and remove the tag of being an underdog.

The Royals have been illuded by the IPL trophy for last 10 years now. 2008 was an exceptional run when they bamboozled all strong-on-paper opponents and went on to engrave their name for the first time on the IPL trophy. It was mostly due to legendary leggie Shane Warne’s inspirational leadership and mentorship that the young lads in the team went on to script history.

"I see this as an enjoyable opportunity. The common thing is that we are working to win matches for Rajasthan," McDonald said while speaking to IANS as per Indian Express.

"Rajasthan have made it to the final four 4 times out of the 10 seasons they have played. Our challenge is to improve and make that improvement sustainable over a period of time. I am looking forward to improving the team so that we go from underdogs to title favourites leading into the tournament," he added.

Rajasthan Royals have reached top four 4 times out of their 10 appearances. The 38-year-old believes there are multiple reasons for their poor performance.

"I think there are multiple reasons why teams don't succeed, don't potentially make it to the final four. One of them is that a lot of the opposition teams are very strong. It's a very competitive competition and it's tough to make it to the final four," he said.

McDonald also has the experience of playing in IPL where he represented Delhi Daredevils in 2009 and Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2012-2013. Having played for different franchises in IPL and other T20 leagues across the globe, he is aware of the pressure the players have to deal with. He also has coaching experience with RCB. 

"There are going to be highs and lows throughout the course of the seasons. I call the T20 format a rollercoaster, it goes up and down. And so by playing in the IPL, it does give me the understanding of what all the players are going through," he concluded.