‘Time to go back and…’ – Former Australia skipper bluntly responds to notion of Cameron Green as opener for Australia in Tests’
Ponting on Australia’s next opener (Source: Twitter)
The ongoing Test series between Pakistan and Australia is set to be the last Test series for veteran Australia batter David Warner. Speaking about which the former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting has rejected proposals to have Cameron Green replace David Warner. Ponting has emphasized on the importance of selectors opting for a dedicated opener as Warner’s successor.
Despite suggestions from individuals like Simon Katich, who advocate for the emerging all-rounder Cameron Green to take up Warner’s opening position, Ponting maintained the significance of having a specialized batter. This is particularly crucial, considering the upcoming pivotal series against India and England over the next two years.
“No chance. Time to go back and find Australia’s next best opening batsman with the India Test series and Ashes in mind,” Ponting said.
I think it’s quite clear that Bancroft is the one: Ponting
David Warner is slated to retire following the third Test against Pakistan in Sydney and has endorsed Marcus Harris as his favored successor. This choice has elicited responses, with former Australian selector Jamie Cox rebuking Warner for openly stating his preference. Harris along with Matt Renshaw and Cameron Bancroft, is among the three specialist openers vying for a potential recall in the upcoming Tests against West Indies in January.
The legendary Australian batter had earlier endorsed Bancroft, highlighting his notable performance in the Sheffield Shield. Bancroft, who claimed the leading run-scorer title in the previous season and currently leads the charts in the ongoing season, has built significant momentum.
“If you look at those three guys, I think it’s quite clear that Bancroft is the one that’s got the runs on the board and I wouldn’t be surprised if they (selectors) go that way,” the former Australian skipper said an month ago.
Mike Hussey who is a former teammate of Ponting has echoed similar sentiments and has underscored the importance of having a conventional and seasoned opener to take over from Warner.
