Pat Cummins Named Australia Captain: Pat Cummins became only the second fast-bowler to be named as the captain of an Australian Test side. Ray Lindwall captained Australia way back in 1956 against India. Since then, there hasn’t been any fast-bowler captain for Australia.
Steve Smith has been named the vice-captain.
Pat Cummins has been announced as Australia's captain after Tim Paine, was found guilty in a 'sexting scandal' of 2017. Tim Paine stepped down as Australia's Test captain last Friday for sending 'inappropriate messages' to a female co-worker in 2017. Although Cricket Australia exonerated him of any breach of its code of conduct.
"I am honoured to accept this role ahead of what will be a massive Ashes summer," Cummins said in a statement.
"I hope I can provide the same leadership Tim (Paine) has given the group in the past few years. With Steve and I as captains, a number of very senior players in this squad and some great young talent coming through we are a strong and tightly knit group," he said.
Selectors George Bailey and Tony Dodemaide, along with CA Board member Mel Jones, interim chair Richard Freudenstein and CEO Nick Hockley finalised Cummin's name after rigorous assessment.
"I am pleased to return to the leadership of the team and look forward to helping and assisting Pat in any way I can," Smith said in a statement.
Tim Paine Out For 'Foreseeable Future'
"Following discussions over the last 24 hours, Tim Paine has advised Cricket Tasmania that he will be taking a leave of absence from all forms of cricket for the foreseeable future," Cricket Tasmania said in a statement.