MUMBAI: Former Australian captain Steve Smith revealed he had an enjoyable experience leading MS Dhoni during the 2017 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Smith captained the Rising Pune Supergiants team that year, which included Dhoni.
Smith appreciated Dhoni’s deep cricket knowledge and his ability to read the game from behind the stumps. He found Dhoni helpful and supportive as his captain. Smith led Rising Pune Supergiant to the IPL final in 2017, nearly winning the title.
“There were plenty of times when MS was great,” I had fun playing with him. I also liked guiding him. He definitely helped me,” Smith said Star Sports.
Smith respected Dhoni’s calm approach to the game. He tried to emulate Dhoni’s level-headed demeanor. The two players developed mutual respect and camaraderie during their IPL stint together. Smith viewed Dhoni as a mentor on and off the field.
“He’s relaxed and a great individual,” Smith added. He further highlighted Dhoni’s exceptional game understanding from behind the wickets.
“In India, there’s nobody better at wicketkeeping than MS Dhoni. He understands the game and its angles like nobody else. Playing with him was fantastic, and I enjoyed his company both on and off the field,” he concluded.
Smith appreciated the opportunity to captain and play alongside the Indian cricket great Dhoni in the IPL. It stood out as a major highlight of his career.
Dhoni is currently playing for Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League 2024.
