Before the start of the Indian Premier League, even the most die-hard Rajasthan fan wouldn't probably have visualised Shane Warne lifting the winners' trophy. But when the Royals' skipper did precisely that on Sunday night, no one could have grudged it. Had there been an award for the skipper-of-the-tournament, the Aussie leg-spin wizard would have won it hands down.
Following are excerpts from a chat with the Royals skipper after the heart-stopping final.
Question: It's a fairytale ending for you and your team ...
Warne: Definitely. When we started, nobody could have thought that we would be the champions. But as the tournament progressed, we improved like anything. Improved in batting, bowling, fielding - in every department of the game. It was a fantastic journey.
How could you manage with such an inexperienced side?
That was the challenge. First of all, I tried to inject self-belief in the team. You can do impossible things if you have the will-power. And I tried to make the team a happy family. That is the key factor.
What was your role in the team as the leader?
I had to analyse the match situations and act accordingly. And the team executed my plans perfectly. That is why, I say, this is a team effort. I am sure youngsters like Neeraj Patel and Ravindra Jadeja will go a long way.
What about Yousuf Pathan?
Yousuf Pathan has been a revelation. He became a different player in the last 45 days. Confidence was the key and I was really impressed by his performances in crunch situations.
We saw tears in your eyes after the final ...
It was natural, spontaneous. A very, very emotional moment for me. I will cherish this tournament like anything. I am grateful to Lalit Modi who gave me a great responsibility and I'm happy I could deliver.
So, can we expect Shane Warne to return to the IPL next year?
Why not? I know I'll be 40 next year. But my relationship with the team is in such a state now that I just cannot think about leaving them!
