We know Shane Warne is looking down on us with a lot of pride today: Jos Buttler

Rajasthan Royals will play their second final in IPL history after 14 long years. They will square up against the table-toppers Gujarat Titans on Sunday (29th May) at the Narendra Modi Stadium. The finale promises to be an enthralling affair as they have been the two best sides in IPL 2022. But Rajasthan has extra motivation going into the title decider as they would like to pay homage to their former captain and mentor, Shane Warne, with this win. Jos Buttler and co believe that the iconic leggie has been looking over them and can feel his presence.

The iconic leg spinner led the Rajasthan side to their only title to date in the inaugural season in 2008. Warne passed away earlier this year, a tragic death that shook the entire world. Although Warne’s last game for the Royals came in 2011, he continued to influence the franchise. In 2018, Warne was appointed as a mentor for the Rajasthan team, going into IPL 2018.

Sanju Samson is one of the many players impacted by the enigmatic leg spinner. The Rajasthan skipper talked about Warne after their victory against Bangalore in Qualifier 2.

“The tournament right from the start has been for him, and I think we need to take one more step for him. It’s really special. I don’t want to talk too much about it but we’re one step closer. We want to do something special for him,” Samson said.

Rajasthan Royals players remember the great Shane Warne

Warne shared a special connection with the players as well as the fans. There have been several posters of Warne in the stands throughout Rajasthan’s campaign in IPL 2022. The DY Patil Stadium in Mumbai was decorated with Warne murals by fans last month. It was the same venue where Warne led the Royals to their crowning moment in 2008.

Jos Buttler, who has been in the form of his life this season, also spoke about the legendary Aussie.

“You mention Shane Warne, he is such an influential figure for the Rajasthan Royals, and has led the team to success in that first season, we will miss him dearly, but we know he is looking down on us with a lot of pride today. He made us believe,” Buttler said in the post-match presentation.

This season’s joint-highest wicket-taker and Rajasthan’s spin wizard, Yuzvendra Chahal also revealed his connections with Warne.

“I think his wishes have and always will be with me,” said Yuzvendra Chahal after taking his first hat-trick.