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Smith happy to let leadership debate rest

3 minute read

Steve Smith says he will keep doing what is in Australia's best interests regarding the captaincy, praising the leadership of Tim Paine and Aaron Finch.

STEVE SMITH.
STEVE SMITH. Picture: Michael Dodge/Getty Images

Australian cricket's leadership debate was reignited by the recent snubbing of Steve Smith, who remains unsure about his captaincy prospects but certain about letting the matter rest.

Matthew Wade served as stand-in skipper ahead of Smith during Australia's second Twenty20 against India.

Aaron Finch and Tim Paine are in no hurry to retire, meaning Cricket Australia can spend another summer considering the pros and cons of Smith returning as full-time captain.

But Sunday notably presented the first chance for Smith to take charge since his leadership ban, imposed by CA in the aftermath of the ball-tampering scandal, expired.

Coach Justin Langer indicated at the time there is "probably a bit of a process we need to go through until (Smith) becomes captain again".

Smith admits he isn't aware of the ins and outs of the process that Langer spoke of.

"Not entirely," Smith said.

"Whenever there is a captain chosen, I think you go through a process where you go to the board and things like that. Other people are spoken to.

"I'm sure it won't be too dissimilar. I'm not really sure, it's probably more of a question for someone a bit higher up.

"But that's all that has been said to me and yeah, we'll let it rest for now ... I'm really comfortable with where everything is at."

The star batsman led Australia in 51 one-dayers, 34 Tests and eight T20s prior to being stripped of the captaincy.

Former captain Mark Taylor was among the notable pundits who suggested Smith should have been appointed stand-in skipper ahead of Wade.

Smith, preparing for a four-Test series against India, insisted he isn't giving the issue much thought.

"I just said (to Langer) that I'm happy to do whatever is best for the team and that's the same going forward," he said.

"Tim and Finchy are doing really good jobs in both formats of the game.

"I'm comfortable where I'm at right now but as I've always said, I'll do what's best for the team."

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