Pat Cummins should have first shot at Australia's test captaincy in the wake of Tim Paine's resignation, having won the respect of his teammates as a leader, former skipper Adam Gilchrist has said.
Australia will name a new captain in the leadup to the Ashes after Paine sensationally stepped down from the role last week over a 'sexting' scandal.
Wicketkeeper-batsman Gilchrist was a successful understudy to captains Steve Waugh and Ricky Ponting, leading Australia in six of his 96 tests, including a first series win in India in 35 years during the 2004 tour.
"I think Pat Cummins is the frontrunner there. I've got no problems with him having first opportunity," the 50-year-old said.
"They should have him if he's keen to do it - and he must be reasonably happy to take the role given he's vice-captain."
Like other major cricket nations, Australia has been reluctant to appoint bowlers as captains, with most coming from the batting ranks.
Cummins would be only the second specialist fast bowler in the role since Ray Lindwall led in one test against India in the mid-1950s.
On Monday, Cricket Australia confirmed Cummins was a leading candidate, but also noted former captain Seve Smith was being considered.
One of the world's premier test batsmen, Smith resigned in disgrace in 2019 after the 'sandpaper gate' ball-tampering scandal in South Africa.
Reuters
