IPL 2020: Shane Warne wishes Ravindra Jadeja was still with them at Rajasthan Royals (RR)

A vital cog of the present Chennai Super Kings (CSK) camp, Ravindra Jadeja’s IPL journey started with Shane Warne-led Rajasthan Royals (RR). A young Jadeja was a part of victorious India Under-19 side which won the World Cup in 2008.

Following his U19 World Cup expedition, the left-handed all-rounder also made heads turn by playing for Rajasthan Royals. In the inaugural IPL season in 2008, a young Jadeja helped Royals to clinch the title. Impressed with his fielding ability, the then Royals skipper Warne also gave Jadeja the nickname– ‘Rockstar’.

A key part of the current national set-up, Jadeja is known for his agile fielding and bullet throws. Ex-Royals captain Warne, on Saturday, heaped praise on Jadeja and labelled the Jamnagar-born as the best fielder in the world along with Glenn Maxwell. Warne also wished Jadeja was still with the Rajasthan franchise.

It was great fun to play with ‘Rockstar’ in 2008: Shane Warne

“I think the best fielder in the world would have to be, it’s a toss between Jadeja and Maxwell (Glenn). Jadeja hits the wicket so many times. It was great fun to play with the rockstar back in 2008. I wish he was still with us,” said Warne in an Instagram live session of Rajasthan Royals.

After winning their first IPL 2020 game against MS Dhoni-led CSK, Royals are slated to lock horns with Kings XI Punjab on September 27 at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium. Considering the form of KXIP captain KL Rahul, Warne reckoned that it will be a tough encounter for Royals.

“It’s a dangerous game against King XI Punjab, KL Rahul was outstanding in the last game, wow what sensational innings. Glenn Maxwell who hasn`t fired too much yet in IPL we saw made a brilliant hundred100 in the UK for Australia. He is a dangerous player little bit worried about Maxi (maxwell) because he hasn’t quite fired a shot yet,” he added.

Despite RR registering a victory in their previous game, fans missed the presence of wicketkeeper-batsman Jos Buttler. The England international was undergoing quarantine with his family but he’s now set to don the RR jersey in their next game.

“Yes, he is out of quarantine. So I am hopeful Jos the man will be at the top of the order and I don’t think there is anyone more dynamic in world cricket at the top of the order so looking forward to seeing him play tomorrow,” said Warne.