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With Ashes just a few weeks away, Australian captain Tim Paine has decided to step down as the captain of Test team. Cricket Australia has announced that Paine is likely to be succeeded by fast bowler Pat Cummins as captain of the side. Paine has stepped down as the captain following a revelation of an alleged Inappropriate texting incident involving a former Cricket Tasmania employee in 2017. However, after stepping down, the wicket-keeper batter has said that he will remain a committed member of the Australian cricket team and will look forward with anticipation to what is a huge Ashes series starting December 8.
“Incredibly difficult decision”
Taking over the reigns after the ball tampering scandal in 2018, Paine has captained Australia in 23 Tests including 11 wins, eight losses and four draws. Under his leadership, Australia lost the home series to India twice. Also, Australia were defeated at the Gabba after 32 years earlier this year.
“Today, I'm announced my decision to stand down as the captain of the Australian men's test team. It's an incredibly difficult decision, but the right one for me, my family, and cricket. As a background on my decision, nearly four years ago, I was involved in a text exchange with a then-colleague. At the time, the exchange was the subject of a thorough CA Integrity Unit investigation, throughout which I fully participated in and openly participated in,” said Paine in a prepared statement.
“I have loved my role as captain of the Australian cricket team. It's been the greatest privilege of my sporting life to lead the Australian men's test team. I'm grateful for the support of my teammates and proud of what we've been able to achieve together. To them, I ask for their understanding and forgiveness. To Australian cricket fans I'm deeply sorry that my past behaviour has impacted our game on the eve of the Ashes. For the disappointment I have caused to fans and the entire cricket community, I apologise,” the 36-year-old added.
