IPL 2020: Steve Smith named Rajasthan Royals captain in this quirky Instagram video

Australian cricketer Steve Smith, who had taken over from Ajinkya Rahane mid-season in last edition of Indian Premier League, was confirmed on Monday to lead Rajasthan Royals in 2020 edition of competition.

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Royals, who were reeling at bottom of  points table, during first half of tournament with just two wins from eight games, saw a change in ir fortunes after Smith took over as y won four games on  trot.

IPL franchise confirmed news in a quirky video posted officially by m on Monday.  Royals' newly-appointed coach, Andrew McDonald told IANS that he was looking to work with former Australia skipper and take RR to greater heights.

Here's a look at video anuncing Smith as captain

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McDonald said that Smith was logical choice after season last year as he had stepped in halfway through and y saw a real spark in performance from overall team aspect. He added that continuity was important from point of view of captaincy. He went on to say that former Australia skipper had an understanding of how players went about ir business on field and understood  bowlers' thought process. He also said that it was critical to have a captain who understood  players that he was working with.

McDonald added that Smith also had a great time with Australian team. He had been re under pressure and did it before. He was looking forward to working with him. Royals coach did t have  opportunity to work with Smith at this level and said that he had a few initial conversations with him.

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Rahane's removal as skipper during last season created a lot of buzz but Royals manment said that y wanted to release him from captaincy pressure.

Interestingly, Royals released traded Rahane to Delhi Capitals ahead of IPL 2020 auction.  Indian star will w play for Capitals in upcoming season.

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