Steve Smith has been appointed as Rajasthan Royals’ captain for the remaining matches of IPL 2019. Smith, who had returned to the side after a one-year hiatus, will take over the role from Ajinkya Rahane, who has endured poor form in the ongoing season.

“Ajinkya Rahane did a fantastic job in leading the team to the playoffs last year, however, the franchisee now thinks a fresh approach is needed to bring their 2019 campaign back on track,” Rajasthan Royals stated in a press release on Saturday. “Steve has always been part of the leadership team within RR and Rahane will continue to be a key voice in the side. Therefore, the Royals see this as a small restructuring process to secure the results required to move up the table.”

Zubin Bharucha, Head of Cricket for Rajasthan Royals, added, “Ajinkya is and will always be a true Royal. He led the team to the playoffs in 2018 in a very challenging scenario and that will go down as one of the great comebacks of the IPL. He remains a key part of our side and leadership team and will extend support wherever required to Steve.”

Speaking of Smith, who had led Rising Pune Supergiant to the final in 2017, he further said, “Steve is one of the most innovative and successful captains in the world, in all formats of the game. We are confident he can lead the Royals to success.”

Royals have won only two of their eight matches so far, and will be without the services of some of their key players – Jos Buttler, Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer – who are expected to link up with the England squad by April 25 for international commitments.

Meanwhile, Smith himself will leave IPL by May 1 to join the Australia squad for their World Cup preparations. Royals have six league games remaining in the season and will need to name a captain again for final of those fixtures on May 4 and thereafter, should they make it to the knockouts