Big Test for stand-in skipper Steven Smith

Steven Smith congratulates captain Michael Clarke on his century last week against India in Adelaide. Picture: Getty

Smith, 25, was yesterday promoted to the vice-captaincy and will lead Australia out against India in the second Test in Brisbane tomorrow.

Cricket Australia indicated the decision was made as Clarke’s injury woes – he was scheduled to have surgery on his right hamstring today – put his long-term status in doubt.

Smith is the third-youngest player in the squad to play at the Gabba and will be Australia’s youngest captain since Kim Hughes in the 1970s.

He said: “First and foremost I will try to lead from the front in terms of my performances.

“The on-field tactics, we’ve been pretty good this year. I don’t really feel there’s any need for a big change there.”

Smith, who made his Test debut as a spinner aged 20, has since established himself as one of the leading batsmen.

His unbeaten 162 and 52 in the 48-run victory over India in the first Test took his Test average to 46.03.

He added: “It’s an amazing thrill to have the opportunity to lead Australia in a Test match.”