In between all the speculations, Rajasthan Royals appoints Ajinkya Rahane as their captain in IPL 2018. The verdict comes after Australian captain Steve Smith has stepped down as the captain of the franchise. He was earlier handed over a one match ban and 100% match fee deduction after he admitted to be the main plot in ball-tampering incident in the ongoing test against South Africa.
You may like| Watch: Cameron Bancroft ball tampering incident during 3rd Test vs South Africa
Rahane is the second most successful batsman for the Jaipur-based franchise with 2333 runs in 72 innings after Shane Watson (2474). India’s vice captain was purchased for Rs. 4 crore by using RTM card. Rahane has 3057 runs to his name in 111 matches of IPL.
Zubin Bharucha, a Rajasthan official said, “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.”
“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.”
Speaking about Rajasthan’s new captain, Bharucha said, “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.”
“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. It is important that all cricket fans retain a balanced perspective on the situation. What happened in South Africa was clearly wrong, especially given that it appears to have been pre-meditated. That said, this will be a difficult time for Steve as well, given how much he cares about the game.” said Manoj Badale, the co-owner of Rajasthan Royals.
The 2008 champions Rajasthan Royals will start their campaign against 2016 champions Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 9.
