Smith, Warner 'obvious' choices

Don’t expect much to change on the field when Steve Smith takes over the reins as Australia’s full-time Test and one-day captain, says World Cup winning allrounder Glenn Maxwell.

Smith was officially unveiled by Cricket Australia on Friday as Michael Clarke’s successor in Test cricket and will take the reins once the outgoing skipper plays his 115th and final Test at The Oval next week.

It’s not a new role for Smith, who captained Australia in both five-day and 50-over cricket last summer while Clarke was rehabilitating a surgically repaired hamstring.

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Smith is yet to lose a game at the wheel of the national side, and is the first player in history to score a century in both his Test and ODI captaincy debuts.

In addition to Smith’s coronation, David Warner was handed the vice-captaincy; “two obvious appointments” according to Maxwell, who has played with each figurehead since making his debut in the green and gold in 2012.

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Maxwell with Smith, Warner and Watson // Getty Images

While there could be significant changes to the Test line-up following Australia’s Ashes loss, Maxwell said the way the team would be run on the field would have a familiar feel, despite the contrasting styles of the new leadership party.

“Bull’s going to bring his diverse, dynamic view of the game. Smudge is going to be more selective in the way he makes his decisions,” Maxwell told cricket.com.au.

“We’ve seen in the last 12 months where he’s had chances to captain Australia in the one-dayers and the Tests.

“Playing under his leadership there’s not a massive difference from the trio we had captaining Australia at that time – George Bailey, Aaron Finch and Michael Clarke.

“All three of those guys are great captains and I think Smudge has taken a bit out of each of their captaincy.”

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Smith’s first full-time gig as one-day captain immediately follows the fifth Ashes Test with a one-off ODI against Ireland before a solo T20 international and a five-match ODI series against England.

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With three uncapped players in the 15-man group, Maxwell, with three years and 76 international matches under his belt, is now a senior statesman in an inexperienced squad.

“It’s something I haven’t experienced a whole lot of at the top level,” Maxwell said.

“It’s probably more familiar with the T20 side we had in South Africa last year.

“It’s something I really enjoy, being a senior member.

“When I come back to come level and I’m able to help the younger guys coming through.

“It’s going to be a bit different when it’s at the top level in the one-day cricket team.

“After a hectic series with the Ashes it’s something I’m really looking forward to.

“There’re a few more Vics in there now which is always good and hopefully continue the Australian one-day form and keep us at No.1.”

Maxwell and his Australia teammates will travel to Belfast for their ODI against Ireland on 27 August.