Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting, widely regarded as one of the most successful leaders in cricket history, selects his all-time XI by following a specific criterion. He includes only players he has played with or against during his international career.
Ponting chooses a balanced side featuring dominant batters, elite all-rounders, a world-class wicketkeeper, and a strong bowling attack.
Opening Pair: Justin Langer and Matthew Hayden
Ponting opens the batting with his long-time Australian teammates Justin Langer and Matthew Hayden. He enjoys batting below the two left-handers during his career, highlighting how their contrasting styles and consistent success create serious problems for bowlers across conditions.
No.3: Jacques Kallis
At number three, Ponting selects Jacques Kallis, widely regarded as one of the greatest all-rounders in cricket history. With 40 international centuries and a substantial wicket tally, Kallis becomes a near-automatic inclusion in any all-time XI.
No.4: Sachin Tendulkar
The No.4 position is reserved for Sachin Tendulkar, the only Indian to make Ponting’s XI. Tendulkar enjoys consistent success against Australia and maintains a level of longevity that sets him apart. Ponting acknowledges that very few world XIs can be assembled without including the former Indian batting great.
No.5: Brian Lara
Ponting places Brian Lara at number five. The left-handed West Indies legend proves to be one of the most destructive batters of his era and poses significant challenges for opposition captains, including Ponting himself.
Captain: Kumar Sangakkara
Ponting appoints Kumar Sangakkara as captain of his all-time XI. Sangakkara combines tactical awareness with match-winning performances using both bat and gloves, making him a natural leader in the side.
Wicketkeeper: Adam Gilchrist
At number seven and behind the stumps, Ponting selects Adam Gilchrist. Gilchrist redefines the role of a wicketkeeper-batter, forcing teams worldwide to seek players who can contribute aggressively with the bat while maintaining excellence with the gloves.
Bowling Attack: Warne, Akram, Ambrose, McGrath
Ponting opts for three fast bowlers and one specialist spinner.
- Shane Warne is chosen as the lone spinner, widely regarded as the greatest leg-spinner of all time.
- Glenn McGrath completes the attack as Ponting’s preferred strike bowler, known for relentless discipline and match-winning spells.
- Wasim Akram is selected for his mastery with both the new and old ball, especially his ability to reverse swing.
- Curtly Ambrose earns a spot due to his accuracy, bounce, and ability to trouble batters consistently.
Ricky Ponting’s All-Time XI
- Justin Langer
- Matthew Hayden
- Jacques Kallis
- Sachin Tendulkar
- Brian Lara
- Kumar Sangakkara (Captain)
- Adam Gilchrist (Wicketkeeper)
- Shane Warne
- Wasim Akram
- Curtly Ambrose
- Glenn McGrath
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