Skipper Cummins Win Ashes Tops Wickets

In ominous warnings for future opponents, Pat Cummins believes he can only get better as a Test captain.

The 28-year-old was appointed the captain on the day of the series against England after Tim Paine stepped away from cricket when a sexting saga became public.

Cummins achieved his dream debut as captain of the series with an impressive victory in Hobart. He also topped the wicket tally with 21 wickets despite missing one Test.

For the moment at least, it is clear that he has not been excluded from his bowling.

"That was probably my biggest concern when accepting the role as captain," Cummins said.

"I am a bowler in the team. Sexting I want to ensure that's protected and I'm able to perform as well as I'd like. I believe that with each game, I felt more confident at managing the situation."

Cummins called on Steve Smith, former skipper and deputy captain, to set the fields. Smith said that he could "switch off" when bowling.

"I could definitely ... take off the captain's cap and just be an overs bowler," he said.

"Even tiny things like changing bowling patterns, setting the field in between overs. As I felt I became more adept at managing it as the series progressed.

"That's an extremely pleasing thing. However, it could be difficult in the heat for longer innings. It's something I think I can improve on.

The extra heat will be felt in March, when Australia goes to Pakistan for three Tests.

Cummins has previously said he doesn't see himself captaining for the remainder of his career. Sexting

"For sure , there's more scrutiny. After he saw match statistics of 7-87 at Bellerive Oval, he said that there's more scrutiny on the actual field roles, and the discussions around the change rooms and such things, but it's manageable.

"It's probably not as all-encompassing as I perhaps might have imagined when I first took it on.

"But I'm not sure, but I think the biggest challenge is going to be ahead.

"We're lucky. We are fortunate to have amazing support staff who alleviate the stress that a traditional captain might be experiencing around the strategy, man-management, and those things.