Ponting to lead Australia in Clarke's absence
Clarke strained his right hamstring in Sunday's four-wicket loss to India and isn't available for Friday's match against Sri Lanka. (File photo/AP)
Last Updated : 14 Feb 2012
SYDNEY: Former captain Ricky Ponting will lead Australia again for one limited-overs international to deputize for the injured Michael Clarke.Clarke strained his right hamstring in Sunday's four-wicket loss to India and isn't available for Friday's Tri-Series match against Sri Lanka.With Shane Watson out injured and Brad Haddin being rested after his stint as vice-captain during the 4-0 test series win over India, Australia selectors decided to return Ponting to the helm for a match rather than put too much burden on up-and-coming opening batsman David Warner.Ponting led Australia to back-to-back World Cup titles in 2003 and 2007 before standing down after the quarterfinal exit last year.Clarke was included Tuesday in the 14-man squad for the next two ODIs and is expected to be fit for Sunday's match against India at Brisbane."After careful consideration (selectors) asked Ricky Ponting if he would captain the Australian ODI team in Michael Clarke's absence," selection panel chief John Inverarity said. "David Warner is a young player making his way. He displays considerable leadership potential, but (the selection panel) is of the view that he should not, at this moment, have the added responsibility of captaincy thrust on him."Inverarity said the selectors were grateful to the 37-year-old Ponting for being prepared to "accept this responsibility in the wider interests of the team."Haddin has been omitted from the squad again, with Matthew Wade hanging onto his place as wicketkeeper and batsman. Fast bowler Brett Lee was recalled to the squad after a faster than expected recovery from a broken bone in his right foot and Ryan Harris has been rested as selectors persist with a rotation policy for the pacemen.___Australia Squad: Michael Clarke (captain), Ricky Ponting (captain for Friday's ODI), David Warner (vice-captain), Dan Christian, Xavier Doherty, Peter Forrest, Ben Hilfenhaus, David Hussey, Mike Hussey, Brett Lee, Mitchell Marsh, Clint McKay, Mitchell Starc, Matthew Wade.