Cummins to lead Australia, Paine takes an indefinite break after 'Sexting' scandal

Days after stepping down from Australia Test captaincy, Tim Paine announced an indefinite break from all forms of cricket.

Paine's decision has put an abrupt end to the debate over his inclusion in the Australia Test squad as wicket-keeper for the Ashes. Now it will be a toss-up between Alex Carey and Josh Inglis for the keeper's job ahead of the first Ashes test at Brisbane.

Also read: Tim Paine likely to lose his spot in Australian Test squad

Meanwhile, various media reports suggest that Pat Cummins is appointed as next test skipper while Steve Smith is reinstated in the leadership group after being named vice-captain for the Ashes.

Smith will return to the leadership role three years after the Sandpaper gate in CapeTown.

Cummins, who has been leading the pace attack, will be Australia's 47th male Test captain. He played 35 Tests and took 164 wickets.