IPL: Rising Pune Supergiants replaces MS Dhoni with Steve Smith as skipper

New Delhi : Indian Premier League’s most successful Mahendra Singh Dhoni will not lead his this year. On the eve of the auctions, the captain of Rising Pune Supergiants is replaced by Australia’s skipper Steve Smith for the 10th edition. 

The move comes after months Dhoni stepped down as the Indian captain in the limited-overs format. 

"I have the highest regard for MS Dhoni as a leader and a person. Dhoni will continue to be an important part of our team. He is supportive of the decision keeping the franchisee's best interests in mind," Rising Pune Supergiants owner Sanjiv Goenka said.

Smith, 27, is considered as one of the best batsmen among the current generation. Smith in the past with stints with Pune Warriors, Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bangalore.

Dhoni has been the most successful in skippering the now suspended IPL side Chennai Super Kings, leading the southern outfit to two crowns in in 2010 and 2011. Besides, he also led Chennai to the Champions League T20 trophies in 2010 and 2014.