Ricky Ponting: Former captain appointed Australia assistant coach ahead of World Cup
The appointment follows the resignation of David Saker
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has been appointed assistant coach for the upcoming Cricket World Cup in England this summer.
The appointment follows the resignation of David Saker in agreement with head coach Justin Langer that it was "in the best interests of the team".
Ponting, who captained his country to two World Cup victories, will act as assistant coach to Langer for the tournament beginning on May 30, having twice served as assistant to the Twenty20 side and been part the ODI set-up last summer in England.
Cricket Australia said Pointing will focus on working with the ODI batting group as they seek to defend their title from four years ago.
Ponting believes Australia will be as tough a side to beat as any other in the competition.
"I've enjoyed my previous short-term roles with the ODI and T20 Teams but World Cups take on a whole different meaning for me," he said.
"I have enormous confidence in the players available to the selectors and know we will be as tough to beat as any team in this year's World Cup."
Ponting led Australia to World Cup wins in South Africa in 2003 and the West Indies in 2007 and was part of the team that lifted the trophy in England in 1999.
Langer said: "Ricky knows what's required to win World Cups, and I know he will be a valuable mentor to not just the batting group, but the broader squad as we focus our attention on defending our World Cup title."
Ponting will take up the role following Australia's ODI tours against India and Pakistan.
PA
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments