IPL 2019: Rajasthan Royals look to replace injured Steve Smith for upcoming edition

Mumbai: Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Rajasthan Royals are seeking a replacement for the injured Steve Smith, who was banned for one year in March 2018 for his involvement in the Cape Town ball-tampering scandal.

The former Australia skipper suffered an elbow injury during a Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) match, where he plays for Comilla Victorians.

As a result, the 29-year-old will have to wear a brace for six weeks ahead of rehabilitation which means that it could further delay his Australian comeback.

According to a report in the Mumbai Mirror, the Jaipur franchise is eager for a replacement but the team will only get permission when Smith himself confirms his absence from the eight-team tournament.

With the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 to be played in England from May 30, some of the overseas cricketers will cut-short their participation in the IPL to prepare for the mega 50-over event.

The cash-rich league is set to start on March 23 and will go on till mid-May.