Ashes 2021-22: Pat Cummins keen on carrying forward the legacy of former skippers

Australia Test skipper Pat Cummins on Tuesday said that it is a crazy feeling to lead the side in the upcoming Ashes series. Cricket Australia (CA) named Cummins as the captain following Tim Paine’s resignation due to a sexting scandal. The right-arm fast bowler will be the second Australian bowler after Richie Benaud to lead the side in Tests

Cummins, who debuted way back in 2011 against South Africa, has come a long way. Injuries played a major part in his initial career but since coming back to the national team in 2017, he has not looked back. The 28-year-old has solidified his reputation as the one best bowlers in the world. Now, he is all set to don a new role and take Australia to new heights in Test cricket.

Cummins said it is a special moment to lead the country in Tests. "Similar to when I debuted and received my Baggy Green, you're part of that history. And I remember thinking that was a really cool moment that tied together Donald Bradman, and Richie Benaud, and all the greats of the game.

“On a different level, it's almost crazy being the 47th men's Test captain, the lineage of Painey (Tim Paine), 'Smithy' (Steve Smith), Ricky Ponting. Michael Clarke, Steve Waugh - they're legends of the game, (who) I grew up watching," cricket.com.au quoted Cummins as saying.

Cummins also shed light on the captaincy styles of Michael Clarke, Ricky Ponting, Steve Smith, and Tim Paine. The right-arm pacer said that every former skipper had a unique ability to drive the team forward and he will try to carry forward the legacy. "Michael Clarke made me feel 10-feet tall when I walked out to bowl, even if I didn't feel like I was super confident. Ricky Ponting, just a great people person.

“Steve Smith just led from the front. Painey, great people person ... so great examples to take from all of them."