Tim Paine who had not played a test match for over 7 years before last Summers 1st Ashes Test in Brisbane is now the top contracted player for Australia for the next 12 months after being included in the 20 man contract list for 2018 – 2019.
In the absence of Steve Smith and David Warner, Paine Captained Australia in this months 4th Test with South Africa. Paine now appears the likely ongoing Test Captain leading into 2019 UK Ashes Tour.
Paine and 2nd Keeper Alex Carey are both likely to share the wicket keeping roles across the limited overs format with Paine the Test Captain and keeper a busy role but one he has performed well in as an established and experienced leader someone Australia will rely on for the next 2 years.