Rising Pune Supergiant captain Steve Smith said his team goes into the summit clash with confidence after getting the better of Mumbai Indians in all three games of this edition.
After beating Mumbai in Qualifier-1, Smith’s men had a three-day break. “It [the break] was good and we all had a good training session here before the final,” he said.
Dhoni’s vital inputs
The Supergiant skipper said the final on Sunday was another big opportunity for M.S. Dhoni, one of the most successful players in the IPL. “What we have to appreciate is that he has been around for so long and has always been sharing his views which have been really helpful to the team,” said Smith.
“Personally, playing in the IPL has been a lot of fun for me. I have played good cricket, worked with MS a lot, trying to get the best out and hope to have one big day tomorrow [Sunday],” he said.
On Washington Sundar, Smith said the off-spinner had a fantastic game against Mumbai which had quite a few quality players in its ranks. “It was an acid test for guys like him and he did really well.
“We have had a very successful season and so has Mumbai. I hope to have a good first IPL final personally,” said Smith.
Pune Supergiant coach Stephen Fleming said both Pune and Mumbai have played good cricket so far and whoever plays better will be the winner on Sunday.
Big challenge
Fleming said MS [Dhoni] has always been a very calm person, and so is Steve. “Performances are the key and both have been outstanding. They have been a great influence on the young players in the side. I just hope they come good as we gear up for the big challenge ahead. I am quietly confident,” he said.
“Most of the coach’s job is done before the start of the IPL when the auction takes place and the right combinations are looked for. We were lucky enough to get them this edition. I would just tell the boys to enjoy the final,” said Fleming.
