Ashes in the bag, next challenge for Australia’s Test captain Pat Cummins is subcontinent success

In his first series as Australian Test captain, Cummins led Australia to strong victory in the Ashes, but the 28-year-old captain realizes his team must succeed abroad, particularly in the subcontinent, to be considered one of the best.

After Tim Paine resigned over a ‘sexting’ scandal, Cummins led Australia to a 4-0 victory against England while taking the most wickets in the five-match series.

Pakistan’s conditions will be vastly different when Australia begins a full tour of the South Asian nation in March, their first since 1998.

A tour of Sri Lanka and India is also planned for later this year.

Cummins told reporters that was the next big challenge. He also added “I think the best teams in the past not only won at home but they were really successful overseas as well.”

“Pakistan is next on our radar. It’s going to be huge.”

“A lot of our young players haven’t played abroad much. Even in recent years, I don’t think we’ve played a test abroad.”

“(We’re) excited to test our way in different conditions.”

When Justin Langer’s contract expires after the Pakistan tour, his future at the helm looks uncertain. Cummins has already made an impact as captain.

After Sunday’s win at Hobart, Cummins said it would be good to get “some clarity” on Langer’s future. Langer has expressed a desire to continue in the job.

“Through the World Cup and the Ashes, he has been great. I don’t think it’s been a topic of conversation within the camp,” he said.