SMITH A SAND-IN SKIPPER

Disgraced Aussie star back at the helm following Cummins KO

- BY ANDY DUNN Chief Sports Writer

THERE are many reasons why Steve Smith has long been forgiven by Australian cricket for cheating while captaining his country.

Time is one. Sandpapergate happened over seven years ago and he was suitably repentant in the immediate aftermath of his crime and has pretty much kept his nose clean since.

But the main reason is that Smith, 36, remains an exceptional cricketer and captain, and that is of even more importance to the Aussies when England are Down Under.

After the dark days when sledging became abuse, Australian cricket occasionally likes to portray itself as proud and principled. Fair enough.

But it seems principles can take a back seat when it is time to put one over the Poms.

As expected, Pat Cummins' back injury has now officially ruled him out of the first Test in Perth and Andrew McDonald, the Australian coach, confirmed that Smith will step up as skipper.