Australia confirm Steve Smith appointment to replace Michael Clarke

Steve Smith has described being named as the next Australia Test captain as an “honour and privilege” – and hopes to send incumbent Michael Clarke out on a high in his final appearance next week.

But aside from the second Test win at Lord’s, where Smith, Chris Rogers and Mitchell Johnson were all outstanding, Australia have been well beaten in the other three matches with no genuine stand-out performers.

Cricket Australia on Friday announced that Steven Smith will take over the test captaincy of the national team following Michael Clarke’s retirement after the fifth Ashes Test.

Candice Warner, the wife of opening batsman David, and Clarke have denied reports of a rift between various members of the touring party, which is said to have upset team spirit.

Smith will also be Australia’s T20 captain during their tour of the British Isles due to Aaron Finch’s injury.

Hogg felt Steve Smith is the right man for the Australian top job.

The chief selector lamented their middle order – Michael Clarke, Adam Voges and, depending on the test, one of Shane Watson, Mitch Marsh and Shaun Marsh – had contributed so little compared to England’s.

16 for three became 27 for four when Lauren Winfield was trapped in front for 12 by Megan Schutt and England’s woes increased when Natalie Sciver (2) was caught by Healy off Schutt for two to leave them reeling at 29 for five. “He should be incredibly proud”. We’ve seen it in the past under our previous leaders, how much time it does take out of your day.

On Warner, Marsh added: “David has matured and developed into an important senior figure in the Australian team”.

“I think you know as a person what you have to do”, said Warner. He had valuable experience captaining the Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL earlier this year and we are confident he will provide strong support to Steve as his deputy. We just have to be smart when we’re out there and to concentrate on what’s ahead, and that’s the game.

While promising a “full and frank” review, Lehman said he retained great confidence in the future of Australian cricket, the coaching staff, his players and in the young players coming through.

“I’ve got a lot of hundreds and I’m playing a good brand of cricket”.

Beleaguered chairman of selectors Rod Marsh has called for Australia’s batsmen to be selfish – “that seems to me to be not wanting to get out and wanting to occupy the crease longer than anyone else in your team”.

“There’s no question we haven’t performed as we expected… and while we’re happy to cop criticism for the way we bat, bowl, field or prepare I believe it’s unfair to suggest having families with us as a reason for our on-field efforts”, he said.