Australian skipper Steve Smith today relinquished captaincy of Rajasthan Royals in the upcoming 11th edition of Indian Premier League starting 7th of next month.

India’s Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane has been named new skipper of Rajasthan Royals. Steve’s decision to step down came in the wake of severe backlash he has faced after admitting to ball tampering during the third Test against South Africa. Steve has been given a one-Test ban by the ICC.

But Cricket Australia is understood to be considering still harsher sanctions.

Meanwhile, VVS Laxman, mentor of another IPL franchisee, Sunrisers Hyderabad said, they would await Cricket Australia’s decision on Sunrisers’ captain David Warner who is also embroiled in the ball tampering controversy.

Sunrisers are last season’s champions of IPL. They will start their final leg of preparation from Friday.

Rajasthan Royals will launch their season with an away fixture against Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 9 followed by their first home game in Jaipur on April 11 against the Delhi Daredevils.