Wade replaces injured Smith as NZ tour skipper

Australian wicketkeeper Matthew Wade has assumed captaincy duties for the upcoming New Zealand tour after injury ruled out Steve Smith, with youngster Sam Heazlett called up as his replacement, Cricket Australia said on Friday.

Smith's deputy David Warner was already due to be rested for the three one-day games in New Zealand starting Monday. Smith was fielding in the fifth one-day international against Pakistan at the Adelaide Oval on Thursday when he injured his left ankle, CA said.

"He came off the field and had his ankle strapped and was able to return to the field for the remainder of the match," sports science and sports medicine manager Alex Kountouris said in a statement.

Wade said he was surprised but "very excited" to be chosen as Australia's 24th ODI captain by the national selection panel.