Steve Smith will take over as captain of the Australian team following the retirement of Michael Clarke after the fifth Ashes Test against England, the country’s cricket board said on Friday.

Opening batsman David Warner will be Smith’s deputy in the Test and one-day international formats, Cricket Australia said in a statement. Clarke announced his decision to quit international cricket after England won the fourth Test at Trent Bridge last week to regain the Ashes.

‘We have had a clear succession plan in place for the captaincy with Steve Smith gaining valuable experience leading the Australian Test Team while Michael Clarke was recovering from injury last season,’ said national selector Rod Marsh.

‘When Michael made his decision to retire last week it was a very straightforward decision for us to nominate Steve as his successor.

‘He has big shoes to fill but everything about him suggests he is the right man for the job. At 26, he is a fine young man with extraordinary talent, excellent leadership qualities and a terrific temperament. He is highly regarded by the selectors and we congratulate him on being appointed to the role on an ongoing basis. He should be incredibly proud.’ – Reuters