The Ashes 2021-22: Jason Gillespie Speaks Up On Steve Smith's Vice-Captaincy Appointment

Former Australian fast bowler Jason Gillespie believes that Steve Smith has been punished enough for the Sandpaper gate and is an acceptable choice to take over the vice-captaincy role for Australia.

Tim Paine’s captaincy stint ended abruptly after a scandal following which, Pat Cummins was appointed as the new Test captain of Australia. He specifically requested for Smith to be appointed as his deputy and Gillespie opined on the same.

“At the time of the Sandpaper gate, I did not think Steve Smith would be involved in a leadership role with Australia again. I was vocal about that, but over time I have probably changed my tune and I certainly think he can have the leadership role. A lot of water has gone under the bridge and he’s paid a very heavy price in my opinion and probably, a bit unfairly,” Gillespie said at a virtual press conference.

“Do it how you want to do it”- Jason Gillespie to Pat Cummins

Newly-appointed skipper Cummins will be closely followed as his first appointment will be the all-important Ashes series that begins on December 8 at the Gabba.

“Yeah, look quite simple. My advice to Pat Cummins would be to ‘be yourself and be your own man’. Do it how you want to do it. Lead the side how you want to lead the side. That is the only advice I can give him, he has got to do the job in his own way. I am sure he will be fine,” Gillespie said.

Following the first Test at the Gabba, the teams will move to Adelaide for the second before heading to Melbourne for the Boxing Day Test.

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