Australian cricketer Pat Cummins has become the first fast bowler in 65 years to be appointed captain of the national Test side, with Steve Smith his deputy, only weeks before the Ashes series begins against England.

It comes as his predecessor Tim Paine – who last week sensationally stood down as captain after becoming embroiled in a sexting scandal with a female Cricket Tasmania employee – announced he would be taking an indefinite break from the game.