Steve Smith to leave IPL 2019 after game against RCB

Kolkata, April 26 - Rajasthan Royals skipper Steve Smith will leave the ongoing edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) after his team's match against the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) slated for April 30 and will join the Australian team for World Cup preparation.

Smith revealed this after Thursday's game against the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) which his side won by three wickets at the Eden Gardens here. 

Royals will also miss Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer in the remaining three games as the England internationals will join their national side in the training camp for the upcoming World Cup slated to be held from May 30. 

"We lose a few players now. Jofra and Stokesy (Stokes) are off tonight, they go back to England now - two big holes to fill. I am here for 13 games. After the Bangalore one, I'll be heading back. Hopefully, I can contribute and see if we can get few more wins," said Smith in the post-match presentation ceremony.

On Thursday, Royals secured their fourth win of the ongoing IPL edition and kept their chances afloat of making it to the playoffs. Chasing 176, Royals rode on some matured and skillful batting from Riyan Parag, who kept his calm and composure to see his side cross the line. 

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