IPL allowed Shane Warne to demonstrate that he was a competent captain: Kevin Pietersen

Shane Warne was widely regarded as one of the greatest spin bowlers in the annals of cricket. Former English cricketer Kevin Pietersen has commented on his tenure in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where Warne led the inaugural champion Rajasthan Royals, and on playing under Warne’s leadership.

Notably, Shane Warne led the Royals to victory in the 2008 championship’s inaugural season, defeating MS Dhoni’s Chennai Super Kings in the final. Kevin Pietersen believed that the IPL provided Warne with the opportunity to showcase his skills as a captain.

“I believe that the IPL gave Shane Warne the authority to demonstrate that he is a competent captain.

He did not have outstanding players or a team that made you believe the Rajasthan Royals would prevail. Certainly not. His ability to make others believe they are so much superior than they actually are It revealed, “Kevin Pietersen stated to Betway:

Kevin Pietersen also commented on Sri Lankan legend Lasith Malinga, stating, “It was the distinctiveness of his action, where he delivered the ball, that set him apart. More emphasis should be placed on how he practiced. He would simply place a boot on the opposite side’s popping crease and then run in and strike that boot. Would not be concerned about slower balls, wider slower balls, or bouncers for slower balls. There is a boot, *whoosh*, *whoosh*, and he would run into the room and strike the boot.”

The 42-year-old also spoke about how no other franchise competition can compare to the IPL in terms of the mental strain it places on the players.

“All of the top players are aware that they must perform community service for two months each year. There is considerable duress. I recall discussing this with De Villiers and Kohli three or four years ago. It has been compared to the Champions League. These men are aware that this is not merely an opportunity to make a fast buck. They must really perform, “he said.