IPL 2017: Steve Smith And MS Dhoni Have Worked Really Well Together: Ben Stokes
May 16, 2017 at 9:58 AM
When Mahendra Singh Dhoni was replaced with Steve Smith as the skipper of Rising Pune Supergiant for the ongoing season of the Indian Premier League, there were speculations of not-so harmonious dressing room. And why not? After all Dhoni is one of the most successful skippers in the history of the IPL and his unceremonious sacking was looking absolutely ridiculous.
There were speculations that Dhoni and Smith would not get along very well after the shift in power. However, all the speculations have been brutally quashed as of now. After the group stage, the franchise, which finished second last in its inaugural season, is sitting second in the league table and will have two chances of making it to their maiden final. And one of the prime reasons behind the team’s brilliant performance this season is Dhoni’s valuable contributions behind the scenes.
Rising Pune Supergiant star Ben Stokes has lifted the lid on how the partnership between Steve Smith and Dhoni has done wonders for the team.
“In the hotel, MS keeps his door open and anybody can go in. He’s been very accommodating,” Stokes told Telegraph on Monday (May 15).
“On the field, MS epitomises calmness and, from a cricket point of view, has the best angle in terms of field placements. Obviously, Steve’s the captain, but he’s aware that MS has the best angle and, so, has worked with him in setting fields. Indeed, Steve and MS have worked really well together,” he added.
Throughout the season the likes of Ajinkya Rahane, Manoj Tiwary and even Smith has revealed how the new skipper as well as the team is benefiting from Dhoni and they would be hoping that the World Cup-winning skipper continues to share his expertise with the team as they look to lift their maiden IPL title.
Meanwhile, Stokes, who too has played a huge part in the team’s journey to the playoffs, will not feature in the upcoming fixtures as he has already joined up with the national squad in Spain. The England star, who is the costliest overseas player of all time, has scored 316 runs in addition to taking 12 wickets in 12 matches.
The Supergiant will take on Mumbai Indians in the first qualifier on Tuesday (May 16).