A few days ago, Australia’s Test captain, Tim Paine announced his resignation owing to a sexting scandal. Ever since then there have been speculations about who will take the position next. Pat Cummins, Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne were 3 names who were in the race to take over the captaincy. Earlier today, Cricket Australia made an announcement declaring Pat Cummins as captain and Steve Smith as his deputy.
Cummins was considered one of the frontrunners to succeed Paine. A year ago, he was named the team’s sole vice-captain. This is Smith’s first official leadership post since being stripped of the captaincy following the ball-tampering scandal in 2018. If Cummins is unable to play, he may be allowed to lead the team. The change of guard occurs at a critical juncture in the national men’s team’s history.
Pat is an outstanding player and leader
“I fell the honor to accept this role ahead of what will be a massive Ashes summer. I hope I can provide the same leadership Tim has given the group in the past few years,” Cummins says. “With Steve and I as captains, several very senior players in this squad, and some great young talent coming through we are a strong and tightly-knit group. This is an unexpected privilege which I am very grateful for and am very much looking forward to,” adds Cummins.
Speaking to Reuters, former Aussie keeper and captain, Adam Gilchrist says, “I just think Pat Cummins has developed into a more integral part of the team. And has grown in his knowledge of the game and experiences he’s had.” “Pat is an outstanding player and leader,” CA chief executive Nick Hockley said. “He has earned enormous respect from his teammates and from all corners of the game for his attitude and achievements, both on and off the field. We are extremely fortunate to have an experienced group of senior players who themselves are superb leaders. I have no doubt that Pat and Steve will certainly receive support in their respective leadership roles,” he adds.
Cummins, is popular, telegenic, and affable in public. He takes over as Australia’s leading paceman in recent season. And currently leads the ICC test bowling rankings. Cummins will have plenty of help from his teammates, albeit Paine has taken an indefinite mental health leave. While he takes over as captain sooner than expected, he has captaincy experience. He was New South Wales” captain in the local one-day league.