Following their one-year suspensions in lieu to the 2018 ball-tampering scandal, Steve Smith and David Warner are raring to go for their respective franchises in the twelfth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), slated to begin from 23rd March. While Warner has already been seen in a video for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) fans, Smith got a rousing welcome in the Rajasthan Royals (RR) camp.

The picture you all have been waiting to see for so long! @stevesmith49 is back ð 

On a scale of 1 - #HallaBol, how excited are we Royals? pic.twitter.com/B7LtNcjI3x

The Australian batting sensation was seen arriving in the Rajasthan camp, sporting a yellow turban and holding a placard that read: "Halla Bol Steve". Smith's photograph was later shared on Twitter by Rajasthan Royals with a caption: The picture you all have been waiting to see for so long! @stevesmith49 is back. On a scale of 1 - #HallaBol, how excited are we Royals?".

After staying away from international cricket, Smith will be eager to come good for Royals in the upcoming season of the IPL in a bid to remain in contention for the ICC World Cup slot in the Australian team.

Reuters

He was supposed to lead the Royals last season, but the infamous ball-tampering saga in South Africa led to his suspension and, in turn, an unceremonious exit from India's cash-rich Twenty20 (T20) league. In his absence, India's Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane was seen taking over the reins as captain and eventually leading Rajasthan to the playoffs last season.

A thrilling contest between defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will kickstart the twelfth edition of the IPL on 23rd March. On the other hand, Rajasthan will begin their campaign when they take on Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) on 25th March.