'MS is a fantastic leader. Probably has had the most success': Du Plessis identifies similarities between him and Dhoni
Being the runners-up on three occasions, Faf's Bangalore will open their IPL campaign this year against Punjab Kings in Mumbai on March 27.
After a successful stint with Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Faf du Plessis is all set to take over the mantle of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) captaincy from Virat Kohli. The former South Africa captain on Saturday was named the new skipper of Bangalore, presenting the 37-year-old batter with a chance to lead a franchise for the first time in the lucrative T20 league.
Du Plessis was bought by Bangalore in the recent mega auction for a hefty sum of ₹7 crore. He joins a new camp after scoring 633 runs for CSK in last year's IPL-winning campaign. A fan-favourite in Chennai, du Plessis upheld their batting attack while being among the most experienced batters in the camp alongside skipper MS Dhoni.
Du Plessis shared his thoughts on the new responsibility and also recalled seeing captains like Graeme Smith during the formative years. Dhoni is known for his calm demeanour and du Plessis identified a similar characteristic with the Chennai skipper, saying they both are "relaxed" personalities.
“I'm very lucky that I've been around some fantastic leaders in my journey in cricket. I grew in with Graeme Smith who was South Africa's best leader ever. And then, 10 leaders with MS (Dhoni) and Stephen Fleming (CSK head coach) who are two fantastic leaders,” Faf said in an interview for the RCB.
“But I do think there are similarities between MS' style and my style, in terms that we are both very relaxed characters. MS is a fantastic leader and quite probably has had the most success in terms of silverware than any other captain. So, it has been a privilege to be a part of the journey," he further said.
Du Plessis has played 100 IPL games so far and scored 2935 runs at a strike rate of 131-plus. The South African being an automatic pick as the opener will help Bangalore sort their team combination as only four foreigners are allowed in the playing eleven.
He was bought by the Bangalore outfit following an intense bidding war with Chennai and Delhi Capitals, and du Plessis will join the set of strong characters comprising Kohli, Glenn Maxwell and Dinesh Karthik.
RCB had reached the playoffs in the last two seasons and the franchise would look to dish out a stellar performance this year as well. Being the runners-up on three occasions, Faf's Bangalore will open their campaign against Punjab Kings in Mumbai on March 27.