The former Australia captain Ricky Ponting says he would consider the role of chairman of selectors if offered the job, and that he is also open to discussions on a coaching position with the team.
Marsh replacement
Ponting has emerged as a possible candidate to replace Rod Marsh, who quit as chairman of selectors following Australia’s string of heavy ODI and Test defeats to South Africa. Australia’s hapless performances in the 2-0 series loss to the Proteas came in for huge criticism, with demands for heads to roll in both the dressing room and the corridors of power at Cricket Australia (CA).
Premature resignation
Marsh announced a month ago that he would step down in the middle of 2017 but said last week he would vacate the role immediately. He has been replaced by Trevor Hohns on an interim basis.
Coaching job option
“I’d consider it and have a think about it,” Ponting told Australian Associated Press yesterday. “I’ve said to Cricket Australia from the moment I’ve finished I’m happy to get involved somewhere and help out where I can. Full-time coaching roles for me are something that we need to work through and talk about.”
IPL experience
Ponting, who stepped down as coach of Indian Premier League club Mumbai Indians this year after leading them to the title in 2015, said he would have to talk to his family before making any decision.
‘On the road’
“With that role, you’re probably on the road for six or seven months of the year and I’ve done that for 20 years,” said Ponting, 41, who has been in talks with CA to coach the team for a three-match Twenty20 series against Sri Lanka in February.
Record as player
Ponting is one of Australia’s most successful players of all time. The right-hander scored 13,378 runs in Tests and another 13,704 in ODIs. He also led his team to two World Cup wins, in 2003 and 2007.
* Reuters
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