IPL 2018 | Ajinkya Rahane : I am very excited to captain Rajasthan Royals

Sandpaper gate has not only affected the ongoing South Africa-Australia series but it also raised some questions about the Australian players’ availability in the upcoming IPL. During the third Test between the two countries, Cameron Bancroft was caught tampering the ball live on camera and in the press conference, Bancroft and Steve Smith accepted their involvement in the same. The ICC handed a one-Test ban to the Aussie skipper and later the Rajasthan franchise revealed that Rahane would lead the side after Smith decided to step down from his position. 

"I am very excited to captain the team that I have always considered as my family. I would extend my thanks to the entire management of Rajasthan Royals for having shown the trust in me and considering me for this role," 29-year-old Rahane was quoted as saying in a press release as quoted by PTI.

"I am thrilled to be back with the Royals again and I am ready to get to work and do all that I can, to ensure we go all out and give our best. We won't miss a beat as we gear up for yet another exciting IPL season in a few days from now."

Rajasthan Royals are ready to join the fray in the 11th edition of the league after serving a two-year ban for their involvement in the match fixing scandal. In the last season of the league, Rahane and Smith were both a part of the Rising Pune Supergiant franchise.

"I would also like to thank the fans and followers who have stood by us and I look forward to their continued support for Rajasthan Royals for the upcoming season," he added.

The Rajasthan based team will play their first match in the league against Sunrisers Hyderabad in the latter's home on April 9.