The first edition of IPL was played in 2008. Rajasthan Royals led by Shane Warne surprised everyone by capturing the first title of this colorful league. During that time there were not so many famous players in Rajasthan’s team, but on the guidance of Warne, this team was successful in defeating Mahendra Singh Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings in the final. After this Rajasthan has not won the title.
In a documentary focused on the Rajasthan Royals’ title win under Warne, several cricketers who were part of the 2008 team recounted their experience of playing under the late Australian. He relived memories both on and off the field and it was during this time that Pakistan’s Kamran Akmal, who was part of the Rajasthan Royals team in 2008, revealed how Warne used to punish players who came late for the practice session with unique punishment.
Akmal told in the documentary Sports Yaari, “Yusuf Pathan and Ravindra Jadeja got late for practice. So Warne didn’t say anything at that time. Even I was late but I joined the team a little late, so he didn’t do anything to me.”
He continued, “We practiced and then left the stadium. When we were returning, he asked the driver to stop the bus. Then Warne turned to both and said ‘you guys come on foot’.”
Jadeja, who won the first title for Rajasthan Royals in 2008, has today become the captain of Chennai Super Kings. After the resignation of Mahendra Singh Dhone, CSK has appointed him as the new captain. While Yusuf Pathan has retired from international cricket.