SYDNEY- Ricky Ponting has stepped down as Australia’s captain in Tests and ODIs following their quarter-final exit from the World Cup but will be available for selection as a batsman in both formats.
Ponting made the announcement at the SCG today, and backed Michael Clarke to take over the leadership of the team.
Ponting said the World Cup exit had prompted his decision and that “no one has tapped me on the shoulder asking me to go.”
“I have resigned as captain of both the Test and one-day Australian teams. I will continue to play and am available for selection in both the one day and Test teams,” Ponting said. “I have thought long and hard about what Australian cricket needs. Now is the right time for the next captain to assume the responsibility for both the Test and one-day teams. We have to be doing everything we can to win back the Ashes in 2013-14 and the World Cup in 2015. It is highly unlikely that I will be still playing so it is the right decision for Australian cricket that the next captain now be appointed. This will give him the opportunity to create his own direction and legacy.
“Today is a new start for me and I am very excited about the future. I will give my complete support to our new captain and continue to do my best to set the best possible example for my team-mates and emerging cricketers alike.”
