Australian cricketer Steve Smith stepped down as Captain of the Rajasthan Royals and will be replaced by Ajinkya Rahane. This comes after the ball tampering incident by Australian cricketers that shook the sports industry.
A Rajasthan Royal official Zubin Bharucha said, “It’s in the best interest of the Rajasthan Royals that he steps down as Captain so the team can get ready for the start of the IPL without the ongoing distractions.”
Bharucha added, “Ajinkya Rahane has been an integral part of the Royals family for a long time now and he understands the culture and values of our team. We have absolutely no doubt that he will be a great leader of the Rajasthan Royals.”
The Royals will be returning to the IPL after being suspended for two years because of betting allegations.
During a match between South Africa and Australia Steve Smith and Cameron Bancroft were involved in tampering the ball. This cost Smith 100% of the match fee with a one Test Match ban. Cameron, on the other hand, lost 75% of the match fee and three demerit points.
Steve Smith apologized in a shocking press conference where he admitted to tampering the ball. Bancroft was caught on camera attempting to use tape and dirt to tamper the ball.
