Rising Pune Supergiant's skipper Steve Smith puts an emotional post on Instagram

Hyderabad: While he is gearing up to lead Rising Pune Supergiant for the one final time as they take on Mumbai Indians in the IPL 2017 final, Steve Smith took to Instagram to sum up his “incredible” four months in India.

Smith, who replaced the iconic MS Dhoni as RPS captain ahead of tenth edition of the Indian Premier League, turned the team's fortunes as the Sanjiv Goenka-owned side, which finished seventh in IPL 2016, became the first team to qualify for the IPL 2017 final.

The Australian skipper arrived in India in February for the four-match Test series against Virat Kohli-led side. The critics did not give Australia a chance and predicted a huge defeat. However, Smith, who scored 499 runs, led from the front as Australia made India toil despite losing the series 1-2.

While there were quite a few acrimonious moments; on the field and off it; in the series, the series remained one of the most fiercely fought contests in recent times.

Smith, who will be leaving the Indian shores after four months following the IPL final, said he was “grateful”.

“The last 4 months here in India have been incredible. There has been some ups and downs along the way but I've learnt such a great deal. The Test matches were tough but so enjoyable to be apart of. I've met some wonderful people, and I've made some new friends,” said Smith.

“The IPL and playing with Pune has been a terrific experience and I look forward to spending my last night here in India battling it out in the Final. Thank you to everyone here in India that has made this trip so unforgettable. #grateful #opportunity,” concluded Smith.