Australia stick with Ponting

20 September 2007

Ricky Ponting © Getty Images

Australia have kept injured captain Ricky Ponting in their squad for the forthcoming tour of India despite ruling him out of the remainder of the ICC World Twenty20.

Ponting injured a hamstring during Tuesday’s defeat to Pakistan and missed Thursday’s victory over Sri Lanka which secured their place in the last four of the competition.

Having assessed his injury over the last two days, the Australia medical staff have finally confirmed Ponting will not be able to play in the final stages in South Africa but believe he has a chance of featuring in the seven-match one-day series in India.

Brad Haddin has been added to the Australia squad as cover, but Andrew Hilditch, chairman of the selection panel, said: “Ricky is making excellent progress following his hamstring strain in the game against Pakistan.

“Although Ricky’s injury is very disappointing, it gives us an opportunity to recognise the outstanding performances of Brad Haddin domestically and in his limited opportunities for Australia in the past 12 months.”

Shane Watson in action before injuring his hamstring against Sri Lanka © Getty Images

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Injuries, though, are starting to add up for Australia, with all-rounder Shane Watson limping out of the game against Sri Lanka having only just returned to the side as Ponting’s replacement.

Watson is also suffering hamstring problems and physiotherapist Alex Kountouris confirmed: “Shane felt some soreness in the left hamstring during today’s game and we will continue to assess this over the next 48 hours before any decision is made regarding his availability.”

Australia's bowling stocks are depleted for the tour after Shaun Tait failed to recover from an operation on his right elbow.

The 24-year-old will remain in South Australia to continue his rehabilitation, but Hilditch is confident he will be fit by the time Sri Lanka visit Australia in November.

"Unfortunately, Shaun hasn't recovered in time from his surgery to be able to take part in the upcoming tour to India," Hilditch said.

"He is, however, expected to make a complete recovery in the next few weeks and commence preparation for what is going to be a very exciting Australian domestic summer.

"His prime focus now is to prepare with a view towards making himself available for selection in the first Test of the summer against Sri Lanka."

Australia are due to fly to India on Tuesday. The first match of the series is scheduled for Bangalore next Saturday.