Friday 14 August 2015 16:27, UK
Steven Smith will replace Michael Clarke as Australia captain after the fifth and final Investec Ashes Test at The Oval.
Opening batsman David Warner has been confirmed as Smith’s vice-captain.
Clarke announced he was retiring from the game following Australia’s defeat by an innings and 78 runs in the fourth Investec Ashes Test at Trent Bridge.
Chief national selector Rod Marsh said: "When Michael made his decision to retire last week it was a very straightforward decision for us to nominate Steve as his successor.
"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."
Smith will also be Australia's T20 captain during their tour of the UK due to Aaron Finch's injury.
Smith later took to Twitter to express his delight at his appointment and also vowed to send Clarke out on a high.
He posted: "It's an honour and privilege to be given the opportunity to Captain the Australian Cricket Team. I'm really excited about what lies ahead.
"We really want to send @MClarke23 out on a winning note this week. He's had a magnificent career and is a true great of Australian cricket."
Warner also later expressed his pride at his new position via social media.
He posted a picture on Instagram of himself alongside Clarke and Smith, saying: "Very proud to be @steve--smith49 VC. I worked hard to turn things around and am determined to serve with dignity.
"We have one game to go and as this man leads us out for one last time it has been an honour playing under and alongside him. He has backed me every time since I started my career and can't thank him enough. @michaelclarkeofficial #Ashes2015"
larke, who retired as ODI captain after leading his side to World Cup glory on home soil in March, has been the Test skipper since 2011 after replacing Ricky Ponting.
He needs 222 runs at The Oval to lift his career average to 50.
The 34-year-old’s captaincy during the Ashes series has been criticised with former Aussie all-rounder Andrew Symonds claiming the batsman “wasn’t a natural leader”.
Meanwhile, ex-Australia coach John Buchanan claimed Clarke eroded the “baggy green culture” with his style of leadership.
Smith admitted earlier this week he was “very surprised” Clarke had decided to quit. His first Test series in charge will be away to Bangladesh in October.
