Aussies turn to Ponting

Australia have turned to Ricky Ponting to captain the one-day side for their match against Sri Lanka this weekend in the wake of Michael Clarke’s hamstring injury. Ponting will return to the role he departed last March, once again taking the captaincy as Australia look to bounce back from last weekend’s defeat to India in this Tri-Nations tournament.

There is hope that Clarke will recover from his injury in time for Sunday’s match against India at the Gabba, although, Ponting’s presence in the side will allow Clarke to take his time and ensure he doesn’t rush back and further damage his hamstring. People looking at the in-play cricket online betting should remember this.

The veteran has been selected as captain ahead of David Warner, the much fancied future Australia captain, who had taken the role as vice-captain in last weekend’s game against India.

The young batsman will continue his role as deputy, this time to Ponting, after national selector John Inverarity admitted the board had wanted to avoid adding pressure on Warner’s developing shoulders, making it clear, however, that the 25-year old’s leadership skills would only be helped by playing under someone as experienced as Ponting.

“After careful consideration the NSP has asked Ricky Ponting if he would captain the Australian ODI team in Michael Clarke’s absence.” Inverarity said.

“David Warner is a young player making his way. David has been gaining valuable experience under Michael Clarke’s captaincy and now he will have the opportunity to grow his leadership skills further as vice-captain to Ricky Ponting.”