Steve Smith has stepped down as captain of Indian Premier League (IPL) team Rajasthan Royals following the ball-tampering controversy during Australia’s third Test defeat by South Africa.

Regarded as the best batsman in the world, Smith admitted on Sunday to orchestrating a plan to ball tamper during Australia’s third Test defeat by South Africa.

Hence, the 28-year-old has been banned for one Test and fined his entire match fee.

Ajinkya Rahane will replace Smith.

The IPL is to start on Saturday, April 7.

• Suren Batagoda summoned to the PCoI
• NEC requests all parties to submit asset and liabilities declarations
• Rainy weather to continue
• Netanyahu’s main election rival, Gantz, says it appears prime minister lost
• Netanyahu in post-election speech makes no victory claim