In a stunning revelation that has set the cricketing world abuzz, former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting has unveiled his all-time Australian dream team, making several eyebrow-raising exclusions including himself, modern-day greats Steve Smith and David Warner, and pace spearhead Mitchell Starc.
The Stunning Omissions from Ponting's Dream Team
The legendary captain announced his selection in a viral video that features 10 of his former teammates alongside the incomparable Sir Don Bradman. The most shocking aspect of Ponting's selection is who didn't make the cut. Steve Smith, despite being one of Australia's most prolific batsmen with over 10,000 Test runs to his name, finds no place in the lineup.
Equally surprising is the exclusion of David Warner, who holds the distinguished position of being Australia's second-highest run-scorer in international cricket. Mitchell Starc, ranking third among Australian bowlers for international wickets, also failed to secure a spot in Ponting's ultimate lineup.
Ponting's Champion Batting Lineup Revealed
Ponting didn't hold back when explaining his choices, starting with the opening pair. Matthew Hayden and Justin Langer, two of his "great mates" from champion teams, were selected to open the batting. "I'm a bit biased with this one because I've played in some champion teams and with some great players," Ponting admitted.
The legendary Sir Donald Bradman, who maintained an unbelievable Test average of 99.94, takes the prestigious number three position. At number four comes one of Ponting's most interesting picks - Damien Martyn, whom the former captain described as "one of the most underrated players that ever played for Australia." Martyn is particularly remembered for his crucial 88-run innings in the 2003 World Cup final against India.
The Power-Packed Middle Order and Bowling Attack
Ponting's team features a formidable middle order and bowling lineup that reads like a who's who of Australian cricket greatness. Michael Hussey secures the number five position, followed by Andrew Symonds at six, whom Ponting called "the greatest teammate I ever had in all forms of the game."
The explosive Adam Gilchrist takes the wicketkeeper-batsman role at seven, providing the perfect finish to the batting lineup. The bowling attack is nothing short of spectacular, featuring spin wizard Shane Warne at eight, followed by pace demons Brett Lee at nine and Jason Gillespie at ten.
Ponting saved his trademark humor for the number eleven position, selecting Glenn McGrath while joking about him being "the all-time worst batsman that ever played for Australia but was pretty handy with the ball."
The Humorous Twelfth Man Selection
Completing his squad with characteristic wit, Ponting named Darren Lehmann as the twelfth man, though not for his fielding abilities. "Just to add a bit around the group. Not for his fielding, but he'd be good serving the drinks," Ponting quipped. Lehmann shares significant history with Australian cricket, having played alongside Ponting, Gilchrist, Michael Bevan, and McGrath in both the 1999 and 2003 ODI World Cup finals, and later serving as Australia's head coach.
The selection has sparked widespread discussion among cricket enthusiasts, particularly given the exclusion of contemporary stars despite their monumental achievements. Ponting's team represents a perfect blend of legendary figures from different eras, all connected through their immense contributions to Australian cricket history.
