A while ago there were reports about Ajinkya Rahane stepping into the shoes of the captain for the Rajasthan Royals. Now, the franchise has confirmed the news via social media.

The official Instagram page of the Rajasthan Royals read, "@ajinkyarahane to lead Rajasthan Royals in #IPL2018 “The game is bigger than any individual and we hold this thought close to our heart. The decision to replace Steve Smith with Ajinkya Rahane was arrived at, based on sound judgement and keeping the interest of the game and emotions of the fans in forefront,” - Manoj Badale, the co-owner of Rajasthan Royals."

 

An official from the BCCI told one of the news agencies, "Now the ball is completely in Rajasthan Royals' court. Yes, Smith was dishonest in allowing a youngster to tamper with the ball. He has set a very bad example but Rajasthan's plans revolve around Smith."

"We think Rajasthan will like to start with a clean slate without any controversy. So it would be easier if Smith decides to play as a batsman only and let someone else take over the mantle of captaincy,"

Post the ball-tampering controversy, Smith was given one-match ban and was fined 100 percent of his match fees.