Newly-appointed Australia coach Mickey Arthur finds an "uncanny" similarity between teen pace sensation Pat Cummins and South African speedster Dale Steyn.

Arthur, who took over as South Africa coach in 2005 when Steyn just started off his international career, feels that teen Cummins can become Australia's spearhead just like Steyn is for South Africa, provided the selectors manage his workload properly.

"I'm pretty sure he (Cummins) could be (a pillar to build a team around) down the line. I see a similarity with him and Dale Steyn, when he came into the South African team," Arthur was quoted as saying by the Sydney Morning Herald.

"The similarities are uncanny except Pat Cummins is a lot younger, which makes it all the more exciting.

"I do think he needs to be managed. I think it (rotation) is something for the selection panel to discuss and I'm pretty sure (national selector) John Inverarity will have some views on that and I'll be keen to hear what his views are, because ultimately he will lead that discussion," he added.

Cummins, 18, had a memorable debut for Australia, claiming six wickets for 79 runs in South Africa's second innings and then hit the winning runs in a thrilling finish in the just-concluded second cricket Test at Johannesburg.

Arthur, who became Australia's first overseas-born cricket coach, said establishing a battery of pacers will be his initial priority after taking charge.

Arthur will also have a vote at selection, alongside Inverarity, Rod Marsh, Andy Bichel and captain, Michael Clarke.

"Any team that I've ever been involved with as coach I've had a view on selection and I think that gives you a lot of credibility in the dressing room," he said.

Arthur signed a three-and-a-half year contract with Cricket Australia, until the 2015 World Cup.