World Cup-winning captain Ricky Ponting has remained active in cricket even after retirement.
He has taken up coaching roles in franchise T20 leagues, including IPL. He also lends his voice to commentary.
In the latest episode of ICC review, Ricky Ponting was asked to choose five players if he was to make a world T20I team.
The former Australian skipper did the same, but what might come as a shock to many is that there is no Australian in his list, but it includes two Indians.
Here is the order in which Ponting picked his top 5.
1. Rashid Khan
My number one pick would be Rashid. He is brilliant, and if there was an auction without any salary cap, he would have been the most expensive buy, reckoned Ponting.
Delhi capitals coach hailed his consistency and wicket-taking ability.
2. Babar Azam
Ponting praised Babar by admitting that the Pakistani skipper is rightly the number one T20I batter in the world. Thus, he was his number 2 choice.
“The way he has led Pakistan in recent years is incredible. His records are proof.”
3. Hardik Pandya
The first Indian to make it to Ponting’s list is Hardik Pandya. “He is probably the best allrounder in the world at the moment,” said Ponting.
He had a fantastic IPL and is back to bowling. Hardik is India’s biggest asset going into the World Cup, reckoned Ponting.
2. Jos Buttler
IPL 2022 orange cap holder Jos Buttler makes it 4th in Ponting’s list and is the only England player included.
Ponting praised Buttler’s batting in the last couple of years and said that he is one of the few players who can take away the game from you in a short period.
“He is an absolute match winner.”
1. Jasprit Bumrah
The only seamer in Ponting’s list is Indian bowling spearhead Jasprit Bumrah.
“He is an all-format player. He is excellent with the new ball. India will give him the new ball in Australia, and he can cause immense destruction to the opposition.”