Rajasthan Royals names Andrew McDonald as head coach

The franchise is also likely to continue it's association with Australian spin legend Shane Warne - who led the team to its first and the only title in 2008.

Newly-appointed head coach Andrew McDonald.

Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise, Rajasthan Royals, has roped in Andrew McDonald as it's head coach for the coming season.

Highly placed sources in the franchise has confirmed to Sportstar that the 38-year-old Australian will replace Paddy Upton as the head coach.

McDonald, who played just four Tests for Australia, has an impressive record as a coach. Under his coaching, Victoria clinched the Sheffield Shield in the 2016-17 season. He had also led Victoria to Australian cricket’s domestic treble last summer and also helped them win the One Day Cup.

McDonald also guided the Melbourne Renegades to its maiden Big Bash League title last year. It has been learned that the Rajasthan bosses conducted interviews with some of the top names, which included Andy Flower, but McDonald's impressive run as a coach made him the front runner.

The franchise is also likely to continue it's association with Australian spin legend Shane Warne -- who led the team to its first and the only title in 2008.

This will be McDonald's second stint in the IPL. He was associated with Royal Challengers Bangalore last year, but the team management replaced the support staff.