IPL 2018: Steve Smith steps down as Rajasthan Royals captain
Steven Smith has decided to step down from captaincy of the Rajasthan Royals. This comes 2 days after he admitted to the ball-tampering scandal in the 3rd Test against South Africa. The 28-year-old said that the Australian leadership group was the mastermind behind the cheating. He even had to step-down from Australian captaincy. Royals have appointed Ajinkya Rahane as their new captain.
Royals appoint Rahane as their new captain
Disgraced Smith is no more the captain
"The incident in Cape Town has certainly disturbed the cricketing world. We have been in constant touch with the BCCI and taken their counsel. Furthermore we have been in regular contact with Steve" Rajasthan Royals, Head of Cricket, Zubin Bharucha said.
Royals are making a comeback after serving their ban
Steven Smith, admitting to cheating, also comes as a major blow to the Rajasthan Royals. The Royals are making a comeback after serving a 2-year-ban and they don't want any scandal to tarnish their image. However, Rahane's good-boy image will help them. Rahane has been an integral part of the Royals and once again they have turned to him in the time of trouble.
Steven Smith's image has been shattered
"Rajasthan Royals will do everything possible to protect the values and the integrity of the game. We agree with Steve's decision to step down as captain, and we are fortunate to have such a capable successor with Ajinkya Rahane" co-owner of Royals, Manoj Badale concluded.
Smith will not miss any game for the Royals
Rajasthan Royals are 'fortunate' that Steven Smith has been handed just one Test match ban for his role in the ball-tampering scandal, which means he will be available for the entire IPL. Surprisingly, the BCCI hasn't said anything in the Steven Smith's case. The returning Royals will begin their IPL campaign against Sunrisers Hyderabad in Hyderabad on April 9.
