Mohammed Kaif axed from Rajasthan Royals

The Rajasthan Royals have dropped eight players including middle-order batsman Mohammed Kaif from their squad ahead of the second edition of the Indian Premier League in South Africa.

India Test and one-day batsman Kaif, who was purchased for 675,000 US dollars at the auction ahead of the inaugural tournament last year, missed out as the Royals trimmed their team.

"(Kaif) didn't make the cut," said a team spokesman.

The 28-year-old played all 16 matches in the Royals' triumphant 2008 campaign, but his role with the bat was limited. He made 176 runs at an average of 16 from 14 innings.

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