Looking forward to challenge of leading Australia: Smith

Brisbane, Dec 15 (IANS) After being named Australian captain for the ongoing Test series against India, Steven Smith Monday said that he would like to lead his team from the front, as a response to the faith showed on him by the selectors.

“I'm extremely excited. I’m looking forward to the challenge. I'll lead from the front with my performance on the field, with the tactics I think we've been pretty good this year. I don't feel there is a need for a big change there," the 25-year-old Smith was quoted as saying by the Herald Sun.

“For this to come up so quickly it’s an amazing thrill. It’s something that I’ve always dreamt of doing and to now have the opportunity to lead Australia in a Test match it's an amazing thrill,” an elated Smith added.

Smith said he would draw on his leadership experience and advice from New South Wales and Sydney Sixers senior teammate Brad Haddin.

“I know our senior guys will support me 100 per cent and Brad Haddin, who I’m really close with, will be right behind me,” he said.

Australian chief coach Darren Lehmann also stated that they were looking forward to the captaincy of Smith and how Australia would fare under his leadership qualities.

“He’s a young leader and we are looking forward to him going a long way with us for a long time," he said.

“We are really proud of what he’s achieved so far and now the challenge is for him as the 45th Test captain is to get a victory for us in the second Test.”