Shane Warne:
The IPL did one great thing for all the cricket fans – it brought back the retired ‘Sheikh of Tweak’ back to play the game. Warnie was retired from both the Test and ODI format and never played in an international T20I for Australia. But a short break from active cricket and lack of T20 experience did not cause him any problem. After all the famed legend, known for his nippy leg breaks and flippers, was no ordinary cricketer. The Rajasthan Royals would not have got a better leader than Warne. He was associated with the team till the 2011 season and ended with 57 wickets in 55 matches. The stats might not look overwhelming but it was his impact as the skipper that made a major difference. The Royals consisted of young and inexperienced players and started off the least favourites to win in the first edition. However, Warne spun magic with the ball as well as the skipper inspiring his team to win the inaugural season.