'Leg-spinner' Smith welcomes debutant Swepson: 'No doubt he will be far more successful than the last leggie'

Steve Smith started out as a leg spinner and said he is confident that Mitchell Swepson will end up being more successful with the ball than he ever was.

Australia's Mitchell Swepson is set to make his Test debut in the second Test against Pakistan in Karachi and vice-captain Steve Smith congratulated the 28-year-old by indulging in some self-depreciating humour. Interestingly, this would mark the first time that a player would make his Test debut for Australia as a leg spinner since Smith himself did so in July 2010.

Smith started out as a leg spinner. (AP)

Smith hardly ever made a mark as a bowler but conversely went on to develop his batting technique to the point that he is now regarded as one the greatest Test batters of all-time.

"It’s been a while since a Leg spinner debuted for Australia in Test cricket. I have no doubt Mitch Swepson will be far more successful than the last leggie. Good luck mate! Can’t wait to walk out there with you tomorrow," said Smith.

Swepson has replaced fast bowler Josh Hazlewood in the playing XI. "He's pumped and to be honest, we're all pumped for Swepo," said captain Pat Cummins.

"It's been a long time running drinks over the last couple of years, but he is absolutely ready.

"He has been a huge part of the squad, even though he hasn't been playing. So we're really excited to see him get a chance."