Inaugural IPL champions Rajasthan Royals have appointed Australian coach and cricketer Andrew McDonald - who guided the Melbourne Renegades to their maiden Big Bash title this year - as their new head coach for tenure of three years.

The former Australian all-rounder, who represented Australia in four Tests, has outstanding credentials and has coached Leicestershire, Victoria and the Melbourne Renegades.

McDonald has been a part of the Indian Premier League in the past having played for Delhi Daredevils in the 2009 before being signed up by Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2012–2013. He was also the bowling coach of Royal Challengers Bangalore.

"We are delighted to appoint Andrew as our Head Coach. He shares our belief of discovering potential and championing dreams and is aligned with our vision to continue to drive innovation in the IPL. Andrew will be preparing for the season by sharing experiences and best practices with exceptional coaches in other sports and will be visiting India in the near future to meet the Royals team, both on and off the field.” said Ranjit Barthakur, Executive Chairman, Rajasthan Royals.

The interview panel for the Head Coach process included external experts and internal leadership which included Zubin Bharucha, Head of Cricket for Rajasthan Royals.

“Andrew's innovative, forward thinking nature, along with his experience in the IPL and success in other leagues is why we have selected him as Head Coach to help us drive long term success. He is data focused and an impressive man manager who remains well versed with the rigours of modern day cricket,” said Zubin Bharucha, Head of Cricket, Rajasthan Royals.

"I’m delighted to join the Royals family. It's a great honour to take on this responsibility. The Rajasthan Royals is a new, exciting challenge for me, and I can't wait to get started working with our world class players and coaches in one of the biggest sporting leagues in the world.” Andrew McDonald said.