Steven Smith back to his favourite ground in Pune

The last time Steven Smith played at the Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) Stadium in Pune, he scored one of the best Test hundreds on a rank turner

Steven Smith in Pune on Saturday. Pic/PTI

Pune: The last time Steven Smith played at the Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) Stadium in Pune, he scored one of the best Test hundreds on a rank turner. Last year, he scored Rising Pune Supergiant's (RPS)âu00c2u0080u00c2u0088only century in IPL, which also happens to be his only T20 century till date. No wonder then that the franchisee's newly-appointed captain is looking forward to begin another chapter at one of his most happy hunting ground.

"It was great, the last time I played here. I got a hundred, we won the Test, so yes, I have some happy memories. Also, I got some runs in IPL last year. I am looking forward to play here (in Pune) again," Smith said at a promotional event on Saturday.

Smith, who replaced MS Dhoni at the helm, is looking to use the former India skipper's suggestions to take the team forward.

"He has been a great player for a long time. He has a lot of experience. I would be cashing in on whatever he has to say to help me along the way," the Australian captain said.

Dhoni is not the only guy that Smith can turn to should he need any advice in a crunch situation. The team has South Africa skipper Faf du Plessis in its ranks and Ajinkya Rahane as well.

Smith's biggest challenge, however, is going to be his ability to stay mentally and physically fit following an intense Test series in India. His response to that challenge could prove to be a decisive factor to RPS's fortunes.

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