DHONI REMOVED AS SUPERGIANTS SKIPPER, SMITH TO LEAD TEAM
NEW DELHI: Mahendra Singh Dhoni has been removed as skipper of Rising Pune Supergiants for the 2017 Indian Premier League.
The former Indian skipper, who stepped down from captaincy in the limited-overs format before the start of the England series, will now play only as a wicketkeeperbatsman. Steve Smith, the current Australia captain, will be the new skipper of the franchise.
This move has ended his innings as skipper in both international and franchise cricket.
Rising Pune Supergiants owner Sanjiv Goenka said, “Dhoni has not stepped down. We have appointed Steve Smith as the skipper for the upcoming season. Frankly speaking, we did not have a good last season and we wanted someone young to lead the side and revamp it ahead of the upcoming season 10.”
Goenka added, “I have the highest regard for MS Dhoni as a leader and a person. Dhoni continues to be an integral member of our team. He is supportive of the decision keeping the franchise’s best interests in mind.”
Sources said Dhoni has been informed of the decision. The former India skipper has reportedly said he will extend his full co-operation to Smith in the 2017 IPL.
FULL REPORT
ON PAGE 18