In a light-hearted admission, former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has acknowledged that his innings of 62 during the second Test against South Africa might have been crucial in saving his career.
Ponting faced criticism for not scoring a Test century in nearly two years, but he shifted some attention away from himself with a well-crafted half-century in Johannesburg.
Upon his return to Sydney Airport, Ponting provided a refreshingly candid response when asked about his chances of being selected for the first Test in New Zealand.
“Would I choose myself if I were a selector?” Ponting pondered, a smile on his face.
“After last week, maybe yeah.”
The former captain hasn’t tallied a Test century since January 2010, but his determined performance in Australia’s record-breaking chase gave the 36-year-old confidence that he merits his position in the Test squad.
“When you’re aware that you can make a difference in wins, that’s what it’s all about, I suppose,” he remarked.
“I felt like I had a role to play in the second game.
“Certainly, I want to keep playing. I truly enjoy it and always have,” he expressed.
“The current team is fantastic to be a part of. I wish to remain and hopefully contribute positively to the team’s performance.
“… If I continue doing my job, then I’m hopeful that I will keep being selected.”
Captain Michael Clarke expressed confidence in Ponting retaining his place in the team, asserting that he still has much to contribute to Australian cricket if he can build on his latest Test performance.
“If I believed that Ricky Ponting or Mitchell Johnson couldn’t perform at this level, I wouldn’t be backing them as I have,” Clarke stated.
“I’ve been watching Ricky practice in the nets – I know he’s in good form.
“In high-pressure situations the other evening, he showed his quality, but the fact remains that he needs to deliver better performances than he has recently to secure his position in the team.”
Ponting expressed gratitude for the skipper’s support.
“It’s comforting to know that the teammates you go into battle with every week are looking out for you,” he added.
Meanwhile, Black Caps captain Ross Taylor anticipates Ponting’s selection, labeling him a world-class batsman.
“Much has been made of his recent form, but anyone averaging over 52 will be a chief player in most teams across the globe,” Taylor remarked.
by Buford Balony
