SYDNEY: Fast bowler Pat Cummins was named Australia's new men's Test captain on Friday, a week after Tim Paine voluntarily stepped down following the sexting controversy that rocked the wicketkeeper-batter who had led the team since 2018.

Steve Smith, a batting legend and former captain, has been named as Cummins' deputy ahead of the Ashes series, which begins on December 8 at the Gabba in Brisbane. Cummins had previously served as vice-captain under Paine.

Cummins, who is 28 years old, is the first specialist fast bowler to captain Australia's men's Test team since Ray Lindwall, who did so for one match in 1956. In the early 1900s, the team was headed by medium-pace all-rounders Monty Noble and Jack Ryder.

"I am honoured to be given this opportunity ahead of the upcoming Ashes series. I hope to be able to provide the same level of leadership that Tim (Paine) has provided the squad in recent years "According to the ICC Test bowling rankings, Cummins is the best bowler in the world.

"We are a strong and tightly knit bunch, with Steve and I as captains, a number of very veteran players in this squad, and some terrific young talent coming through. This is an unexpected honour for which I am grateful and eagerly anticipate." He stated his case.

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