Ajinkya Rahane replaces Steve Smith as Rajasthan Royals captain

In the wake of the ball-tampering controversy that took place during the Newlands Test, Steve Smith has stepped down as the captain of Rajasthan Royals, his Indian Premier League team, for the 2018 edition of the tournament.

The franchise announced the appointment of Ajinkya Rahane as the new captain on Monday 26 March while confirming the decision to remove Smith from the position.

Zubin Bharucha, the Head of Cricket at Rajasthan Royals, said in a statement: “The incident in Cape Town has certainly disturbed the cricketing world. We have been in constant touch with the BCCI Board of Control for Cricket in India] and taken their counsel. Furthermore, we have been in regular contact with Steve.

“Steve believes given the current circumstances 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. He would like to extend his gratitude to the BCCI officials and all the fans in India for their constant support.”

The franchise did confirm that Smith would remain a part of the squad and be available for selection unless Cricket Australia (CA) and/or the BCCI instruct them otherwise.

Smith admitted to his involvement in the ball-tampering controversy after the third day's play of the third Test against South Africa, which the home side won by 322 runs to go 2-1 up in the four-match series.

He has since been stood down as the Australia captain by CA – David Warner has also been removed as the team’s vice-captain – and Tim Paine led the side on the fourth, and last, day of the Test. Smith was also fined 100 per cent of his match fee and banned for one Test by the International Cricket Council.

“Rajasthan Royals will do everything possible to protect the values and the integrity of the game,” said Manoj Badale, the co-owner of the franchise. “We agree with Steve’s decision to step down as captain. 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.”

On the announcement of Rahane, another former Rajasthan Royals player, as the 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.”

The 11th season of the IPL will begin on 7 April, with Rajasthan Royals scheduled to play their first game against Sunrisers Hyderabad on 9 April.