IPL 2018: Ajinkya Rahane might lead Rajasthan Royals if Steve Smith steps down

The ball-tampering saga has ruined the immediate future of the Australian skipper Steve Smith who had to step down from the helm in the middle of the Test match. Cricket Australia (CA) is set to take some stern actions on the involved players in the pre-planned ball-tampering incident. Meanwhile, there is also a possibility that Smith might step down or be axed from the captaincy of Rajasthan Royals. However, Ajinkya Rahane is the leading candidate to replace him at the position in the upcoming season of Indian Premier League (IPL).

Along with Smith, the role of David Warner for Sunrisers Hyderabad is also under the threat after he was asked to step down as vice-captain of the team on Sunday. The morale of the team was completely low during the day’s play as they capitulated to 107 in their second innings against South Africa chasing a mammoth total of 430 runs. The whole team’s integrity has come under the scanner now after the incident as their respective IPL franchises are awaiting the verdict from CA over the issue.

Ball is in Royals’ court

The world cricketing body though didn’t come down hard at the Steve Smith and Cameron Bancroft as the skipper was banned for one Test match and fined 100 percent of his match fee. While the opening batsman was handed over 3 demerit points along with the fine of 75 percent of his match fee for his actions on the field.

“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,” the senior BCCI official was quoted as saying to PTI.

Ajinkya Rahane too has the experience of leading the national side and even he would be a good bet for the franchise even as Smith will always be there to assist him.

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