Lyon 'Excited' For Smith As Captain But Says Paine 'Isn't Going Anywhere'

Australia spinner Nathan Lyon said that it is exciting that Steve Smith has put his hand up for captaining the team again. Lyon also said that he ranks current skipper Tim Paine among the best he has

Lyon said that Paine and Smith have worked well with each other.

"Tim is the current captain and this is the way Tim wants to run the ship and credit to Smithy, I think he's been very respectful in that way. There's been times where Smithy has been able to pass on his knowledge - (he) has a great cricket brain and can see the game different to most people," said Lyon.

"I think that's a great quality to have; when you've got people like Smithy in your changeroom it can only help you," he said.

He said that Paine has his full support.

"I love playing under Painey. He's up there with one of the best captains I've played under. With him being up there as the best 'keeper in the world in my eyes, I want him to keep playing, especially with such a big Ashes series just around the corner," said Lyon.

"This time off, especially for the guys who only play Test cricket, is going to allow us to get fit, get focused and make sure we're ready for when the summer comes around. Painey has all my support. He's not going anywhere in my eyes," he said.