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Nathan Lyon approves Cummins, Smith as 'two best candidates' to become Australia's Test captain

Nathan Lyon will have “no dramas” with either Steve Smith or Pat Cummins becoming the next skipper of Australia’s Test side as “they are probably the two best candidates” in his views.

Notably, Cricket Australia has appointed a five-member panel to select the next captain of the side after Tim Paine resigned from the leadership position due to a historic scandal. 

Both Cummins and Smith have been interviewed by the committee including the chairman of selectors George Bailey and Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley but the former has garnered more support from the pundits and former players of the game.

Lyon recalled his playing days for New South Wales under Cummins and said that he will make a good leader of the side. He also assured all support from senior players including himself if he will be appointed the next skipper.

On the other hand, he rated Smith as a “great cricket mind” and one of the best batters going around the world cricket which can bring immense value to the Australian Test side. 

"I think you look at the two guys who have been interviewed by Australia for the two roles, I think they're probably the two best candidates in my eyes," Lyon said.

"Playing under Pat at New South Wales cricket in the one-day set up last year, I think he did a really good job, to be honest with you. I know it's going to be a different kettle of fish, but he's got a lot of senior players around him to support Pat if he does get the nod. But then you look at Steve Smith, I think Smithy is up there with the best batters in the world. He's got a great cricket mind and I've got no dramas with both of them putting their hand up for the captaincy, to be honest with you."

The first Test of Ashes is scheduled to start on December 09 at Gabba in Brisbane.

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