Sydney, Aug 14:
Batsman Steve Smith was today named Australia’s new Test captain to replace Michael Clarke, who announced his retirement after his side’s drubbing in the current Ashes series, Cricket Australia said.
David Warner, 28, will be the Test team’s vice-captain.
Smith, who skippered Australia in Tests against India during the last home season when Clarke was sidelined with a hamstring injury, was the natural choice for the position, Cricket Australia said.
“When Michael made his decision to retire last week it was a very straightforward decision for us to nominate Steve as his successor,” national selector Rod Marsh said in a statement.
“He has big shoes to fill but everything about him suggests he is the right man for the job. At 26, he is a fine young man with extraordinary talent, excellent leadership qualities and a terrific temperament. (PTI)
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