Cricket World Cup: Ricky Ponting will work alongside Justin Langer
What's the story
Cricket Australia has announced that their most successful ODI skipper, Ricky Ponting will work alongside coach Justin Langer for the ICC World Cup 2019. This is a big move for the Aussies, as they would be looking to extract the maximum out of their top notch coaching staff and deliver a strong performance in England, this year. Here is more.
Decision
Punter's appointment will allow batting coach to focus on Ashes
Australia will be looking to defend the World Cup trophy and win their sixth title. Ponting's recruitment is set to allow batting coach Graeme Hick to focus mainly on Australia's Ashes campaign, which starts after the World Cup. "This appointment also provides an opportunity for Graeme Hick to focus on preparation for the Ashes," said interim Team Performance Executive General Manager, Belinda Clark.
Quote
'Appointment of Ricky is a part of this overall strategy'
"With two major events back to back we believe it is important to focus a number of staff specifically on one event. The appointment of Ricky is a part of this overall strategy," said Belinda.
Australia
Aussie squad to be finalized in late April
Australian players selected for the World Cup will join a pre-tournament training camp in early May in Brisbane. The 15-member squad is set to be finalized in late April. Several players will be featuring in the IPL that will get over ahead of the World Cup. The players selected for the coveted tournament, from this bunch, will not be available from May 1.
Punter
Punter to finish his IPL duties and then join Australia
Ponting will be expected to join the camp later on. He is the head coach of Delhi Capitals in the IPL and will be with the franchise till their campaign gets over. Notably, Punter had earlier worked as an assistant coach of Australia's T20I team in 2017 and 2018. This will be a bigger role for the legend.
Information
Ponting's influence will be massive: Our take
Australia will start their World campaign against Afghanistan on June 1 in Bristol. Ponting's influence will be massive. He is a three-time World Cup winner and a legend of the game. The Aussie is respected by all sections of the cricket fraternity.