Steve Smith replaces MS Dhoni as Rising Pune Supergiants captain

Former India skipper MS Dhoni has been replaced by Australia’s Steve Smith as the captain of Rising Pune Supergiants for the upcoming season of Indian Premier League (IPL). The decision comes on the eve of the player auction, on Sunday (February 19).

In an interview to India Today, RPS team owner Sanjeev Goenka confirmed the development. “We have opted for Steve Smith as captain of RPS for the forthcoming IPL season. We wanted a young captain. We spoke to Steve Smith and he agreed. We have communicated the decision to Dhoni. He is a thorough professional. Dhoni and Smith share a great rapport. MS is ready to help him on the field.”