Steve Smith counts on this Rajasthan Royals youngster to take the trophy home this IPL

After joining Rajasthan Royals as a skipper mid-way in last edition of IPL, Steve Smith looks ahead for a fruitful season as 2020 edition nears closer. Smith, who has been in a blistering form as seen in ODI series against India, where he averd almost 78, reflected upon positives in team ahead of new season. ace-batsman identified Assam's Riyan Parag as a box full of potential and capable of delivering match-winning kcks. 

'He played some good kcks'

Reflecting upon Parag's stint with side last year where he played brilliantly, Smith on Thursday said, “Last year, we had Riyan playing some really good kcks that got us over line in a few games. We were fortunate he was able to do that under pressure coming into his first season."

ace-batsman also reckoned that playing second season is more difficult for player as bowlers have already seen you play. "If it is your second season n that is quite often more difficult. Guys have seen you play and kw what you do, studied you a bit more, so it’s about backing that up year on year. Riyan is a terrific young kid who wants to learn and get better. I see reason why he cant deliver us match-winning kcks again,” said Smith. 

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Royals appoint Rob Cassell as fast-bowling coach

Rajasthan Royals on Thursday appointed former Australian first-class cricketer Rob Cassell as ir new fast bowling coach for upcoming Indian Premier League. “We are delighted to have Rob Cassell on board as new fast bowling coach. We have a great relationship from our days at Victoria toger,” Royals’ head coach Andrew McDonald said. Royals' pace artillery comprises of Ankit Rajpoot, Jofra Archer, Jaydev Unadkat, Varun Aaron and Oshane Thomas. 

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Smith sides with 5-day Tests

Steve Smith cited his level of comfort with usual format and said,  “I am comfortable with five days. I like challenge of a five-day Test match. Obviously, re has been a lot of talk about four-day Tests, but my personal opinion is I like five days. I don’t make decisions obviously of how it all works out but my opinion is five-days Tests is what it is all about,” he said.

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