Sanju Samson set to don Rajasthan Royals' skipper hat in IPL 2021; Steve Smith released

Ahead of the 2021 edition of the Indian Premier League, the wooden-spooners Rajasthan Royals made some tough calls as they decided to make a transition in the leadership of the squad by releasing their captain and batting great Steve Smith. RR had finished at the last position on the points table in IPL 2020 after winning just 6 matches out of 14.

In addition, Smith’s poor form was a major concern for the franchise as he was also occupying one of the overseas slots in the Playing XI. In 14 games, the Australian veteran could manage just 311 runs at an average of 25.91 and strike rate of 131.22, with 69 being his highest score.

Thus, in a big development, the Royals team management decided to go with a local hero as the captain. The 26-year-old Sanju Samson, who has established himself as one of the batting mainstays of RR, has been named as the captain of Rajasthan for IPL 2021. RR made this big revelation via their official Twitter handle.

“A new chapter begins now. Say hello to your Royals captain,” RR tweeted.

A new chapter begins now. 🚨

Say hello to your Royals captain. #SkipperSanju | #HallaBol | #IPL2021 | #IPLRetention | @IamSanjuSamson pic.twitter.com/pukyEiyb1B

— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) January 20, 2021

Sanju Samson opens up on being the new leader of RR

Samson had an average season in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) last year. He had a scintillating start with the tournament with a couple of half-centuries but by the end of the league could manage just 375 runs including 3 half-centuries in 14 games at an average of 28.84 and strike rate of 158.89.

Meanwhile, the Kerala-based cricketing star is looking forward to essaying his new role with full honesty and dedication in IPL 2021. Also, Sanju believes that over the years he has learnt a lot of things from leaders like Rahul Dravid, Shane Watson, Ajinkya Rahane and Steve Smith and will try to incorporate their leadership qualities .

“It’s an absolute honour 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,” Sanju Samson said as quoted by India Today.