Botha roped in by Rajasthan Royals

South Africa's ODI vice-captain Johan Botha has been signed by reigning Indian Premier League champions Rajasthan Royals after the off-spinner's action was recently cleared by the ICC.

Botha, a replacement for Australian pacer Shaun Tait, had reportedly been in talks with the Royals before the start of the cash-rich tournament but later the signing was put on hold after he was hauled up for his action during the one-dayers against Australia.

Botha was recently cleared by the ICC but told not to bowl the doosra. Rajasthan Royals captain-cum-coach Shane Warne said Botha's inclusion would be a great boost to the injury hit side who are missing key bowlers Tait, Shane Watson and Sohail Tanvir this season.

The defending champions have also been hit hard after Indian pace duo of Amit Singh and Kamran Khan were reported for suspect action and Warne himself been ruled out till the IPL final due to an injury.

"Johan Botha is a sensational player and we were disappointed when he couldn't be part of our squad at the start of the tournament. It is a real boost that he can now make an impact when called upon," Warne said.