Rajasthan Royals to face Cobras ahead of IPL

The Rajasthan Royals, winners of the inaugural IPL, will take on the Cobras, champions of South Africa's Pro20 series this season, in two Twenty20 matches ahead of the second season of the IPL. The two games are scheduled for April 11 and 12 and have been billed as the "Clash of Champions".

The Cobras have a strong line-up with several players with international experience, including Herschelle Gibbs, JP Duminy, Charl Langeveldt, Justin Ontong and Monde Zondeki.

Rajasthan will make Cape Town their base during the run-up to the IPL's second season, which runs from April 18 to May 24, following a strategic partnership with the Cobras and Western Province Cricket association, owners of the Newlands Stadium.

"We are delighted to be working with the Cobras at Newlands during our IPL tournament preparation. It's a great venue, and the "Clash of the Champions" over the Easter weekend will be an exciting contest," Manoj Badale, chairman and co-owner of Rajasthan, said. "It is the first time the Royals have played since winning the IPL tournament and it will be great to see the team back in action."

Both teams have also agreed to work together on future cricketing and sponsorship opportunities to further sporting links between India and South Africa. In addition to the two matches, the partnership will also include player exchange to develop young talent.