ICC Hall of Famer Ricky Ponting has weighed in on Australia’s team selection for the second Test against India, advocating for stability in the playing XI as they look to level the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series.
Reflecting on Australia’s heavy defeat by 295 runs in the opening Test in Perth, where India dominated thanks to a standout bowling performance from Jasprit Bumrah and his colleagues, Ponting acknowledged that Australia had not been at their best. However, despite the loss, Ponting believes the team should remain unchanged for the pink-ball Test in Adelaide.
Speaking on The ICC Review, Ponting said, “I’d be sticking with the same side. You have to show faith in champion players, and many of these guys have proven themselves on the big stage.”
Ponting emphasized the importance of backing players who have previously shown their abilities, even if they haven’t been in top form recently. “Maybe not for a while, but they’ve proven their ability on big occasions,” he added.
The former Australian captain’s comments reflect a belief in the potential of the current squad, highlighting the value of continuity and maintaining confidence in established players to bounce back in the series. Ponting’s approach suggests that stability and trust in the team could be critical to Australia’s success moving forward.
As anticipation builds for the second Test, all eyes will be on the Australian team to see if they can respond to the challenge and perform up to Ponting’s expectations. The second Test is scheduled to take place from December 6 to 10 at the Adelaide Oval, featuring the exciting day-night format.
Following that, the third Test will be held at The Gabba in Brisbane from December 14 to 18, with the iconic Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground set for December 26 to 30. The series will conclude with the fifth and final Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground, running from January 3 to 7.