Ponting embarks on new journey

Former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting signs two-month deal with Surrey as a cover for SA skipper Graeme Smith – who is preoccupied with the ICC Champions Trophy.

Ponting with him brings wealth of experience and class, and although past his best, he has scored 27,483 runs for his country across all formats, notching up 71 centuries in a ‘golden era’ of Australian cricket.

Ponting added of his Surrey move: “I’m really excited to be playing for Surrey this season. They are a forward thinking and historic club – and play at one of the greatest grounds in the world. It hasn’t been the friendliest place for me but now it will be my home for two months this summer.

“I’d like to think I can contribute a significant amount to the club – on and off the field – and am looking forward to getting stuck in as soon as I arrive.”

Surrey team director Chris Adams added: “We knew we would lose Graeme to the ICC Champions Trophy in June. That given, we focused on recruiting the best possible replacement and, in Ricky Ponting, we have signed one of the greatest batsmen of the modern era.

“This year, our young batsmen will enjoy a unique opportunity to learn from not just one but two of the greatest International players of the modern age.”