Sanju Samson replaces Steve Smith as Rajasthan Royals captain ahead of IPL 2021
Rajasthan Royals have appointed Sanju Samson as the new captain of the franchise. Steve Smith, who had been a key player for RR over the years, has been released ahead of IPL 2021 mini-auction.
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Sanju Samson was named as Rajasthan
Royals captain ahead of IPL 2021
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The Royals released skipper Steve Smith
ahead of IPL 2021 mini-auction
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Under Smith's captaincy, Royals had
finished at the bottom of the points table in IPL 2020
In a bold move, Rajasthan Royals (RR) on Wednesday appointed young batsman Sanju Samson as the new captain of the side ahead of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. Royals decided to release skipper Steve Smith after his poor show in UAE. In another move, the Royals have also roped in legendary Sri Lankan cricketer Kumar Sangakkara as the Director of Cricket Operations for the franchise.
Samson is highly rated by several cricket experts. It remains to be seen whether Samson can change Royals' fortunes as the franchise finished at the bottom of the points table in IPL 2020. In IPL 2020, Samson played all 14 matches for the franchise and scored 375 runs at an average of 28.84.
Rajasthan Royals also confirmed the news on Twitter. "A new chapter begins now. Say hello to your Royals captain," RR tweeted.
Sanju Samson excited over the new role
After being appointed as the Royals skipper, Samson thanked several cricketers in Rahul Dravid, Shane Watson, Ajinkya Rahane, and Smith - who have groomed him over the years.
"It's an absolute honor to have been announced as the captain of Rajasthan Royals. It's a team that is so close to my heart, which I've been lucky enough to play for over the years, and I'm excited about the challenge that lies ahead of me as the leader of the team. The Royals have had some wonderful captains over the years and I'm so grateful for all the time I've spent working with and learning from great leaders like Rahul Dravid, Shane Watson, Ajinkya Rahane, and Steve Smith!! I now cannot wait to get started and look forward to the season ahead," Samson said.
