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Delhi Capitals head coach Ricky Ponting has revealed the batting position of new entrant Steve Smith. Notably, the batsman, who was the captain of Rajasthan Royals in the previous edition of the mega event, was released by the one-time champions ahead of the IPL 2021 auction. Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals acquired the star player for 2.2 crores in the recent auction.
Smith to bat in top three, confirms Ponting
In a recent interaction with media, Ricky Ponting said that Steve Smith is going to bat in the top three. However, he hinted that the Aussie batsman would not be getting too many changes, which is quite obvious keeping DC's strong and settled top-order in the account.
“I think the fact that he’s been released from the franchise that he’s been at for a long time will make him a bit hungry as well this year. So, if he gets an opportunity with us — I think it will be in the top three somewhere — if he gets an opportunity, I’m sure he’ll have a great year for us."
Meanwhile, the DC coach revealed that Smith is very keen to perform well this season. He also pointed out that the if the batter happens to manage that then it would definitely increase his value in the upcoming mega auction, slated to take place next season.
Steve Smith’s IPL career so far
Right-handed batsman, Smith has played 95 IPL matches so far and has scored 2333 runs at an average of 35.34 and strike rate of 129.25. Last season was the worst one for Smith, at least statistically. He scored 311 runs at an average of 25.91, his lowest ever in the history of the tournament that he has been part of since 2012. To make things look even worse, Rajasthan Royals, under his leadership, finished at the bottom of the points table.