Steve Smith, David Warner not to lead IPL teams: Report
Australian cricketers Steve Smith and David Warner are set to make a return in the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). However, the two players, who missed the last season, could be barred from leading their respective franchises. They were handed a 12-month ban by Cricket Australia last year. Here's all that you need to know.
What happened in IPL 2018?
Smith and Warner missed IPL 11 after being banned by the BCCI for their involvement in the ball-tampering scandal against South Africa. IPL chairman Rajeev Shukla had announced the decision, hours after Cricket Australia's sanctions. Before BCCI's decision, Smith and Warner had stepped down from captaincy of Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad respectively. Kane Williamson led SRH in Warner's absence. Ajinkya Rahane captained Rajasthan.
BCCI likely to follow the captaincy sanctions imposed by CA
As per a report, there are two reasons behind the decision to not let Smith and Warner lead teams. Firstly, CA had banned skipper Smith from leading the national team for a period of two years. Smith will be eligible for captaincy role from 2020. The BCCI is likely to follow the sanctions imposed by CA.
Smith, Warner not to play all IPL matches
The second reason is that the two Aussie cricketers will not be participating in all matches of IPL 2019. Warner and Smith could miss the first couple of matches of IPL, if the tournament starts before the last week of March. They are also expected to leave in April end, if they are named in the ODI squad for the ICC World Cup 2019.
Williamson, Rahane could continue being captains
If the BCCI goes ahead with the decision to bar them from captaincy roles, then Williamson and Rahane could continue with their jobs. Both these players will be available for the entire IPL 2019 season. Smith and Warner will be seen in the Bangladesh Premier League next. The two will be hoping to score runs and seal their spots in the World Cup squad.
