Skipper Steve Smith (84 not out – 7×4, 3×6) took centre stage and led from the front to help Rising Pune Supergiant to an opening victory in the IPL.
The Australian star batted superbly under lights and was aptly supported by Indian opener Ajinkya Rahane (60- 6×4, 3×6) in a second-wicket stand worth 58.
Pune required 13 of the last over of the match to win, and after snatching three singles off the first three deliveries, Smith took control and finished the match with two huge hits as RPS won by seven wickets.