#IPL2017: Steve Smith calls MS Dhoni 'supportive', says him taking over as new RPS captain has caused no rift

New Delhi: Ahead of the tenth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), Rising Pune Supergiant took a bold step by replacing Mahendra Singh Dhoni as the skipper of the franchise with Australian captain Steve Smith.

While several experts welcomed the move, many were also unhappy with the decision of taking the top post from Dhoni, who is seen as a cricketing idol across the globe.

When asked about the big decision, Smith told reporters on Thursday, "There are no issues between MS Dhoni and me. We have shared some messages, MS is very supportive and it doesn't change my professional relationship with him or anyone else."

Since the inception of the tournament, Dhoni had played as a skipper in the previous nine editions and it's for the first time that he will be playing under someone else's captaincy.

It however remains to be seen whether Smith can live upto the expectations of Pune's think-tank and change their fortunes this year.

Looking ahead to the IPL after a gruelling Test series, Smith said, "It will be great to have so many great leaders from different countries, it's a big plus and not a hindrance."

But he would not like to clutter his mind with too many ideas.

"I have plenty of guys to talk to, but I will not seek too many opinions. Seeking too many opinions can cloud your own judgement. I want to try and stay as clear as possible. But yes, if someone sees something and feels the need to point it out to me, they are more than welcome," Smith said.

(With PTI inputs)