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Ponting back as captain of Australia

14 Feb 2012 - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Ricky Ponting will captain Australia in Friday's one-day international against Sri Lanka in Sydney after Michael Clarke was overlooked due to a hamstring injury.

Clarke has been retained in Australia's 14-man squad with selectors hopeful he'll be fit to play against India at the Gabba on Sunday.

The future has been further clouded for Brad Haddin after Victorian wicket keeper Matthew Wade retained his position, despite conjecture that Test incumbent Brad Haddin could be given a chance in the ODI format.
National selector John Inverarity said pace bowler Ryan Harris had also been overlooked due to some niggling injuries.

"Some players are showing signs of fatigue after a demanding summer in which the Australian team has played with great intensity and purpose and performed with distinction," Inverarity said in a statement.

"The NSP (National Selection Panel) has refreshed the squad with the inclusion of Brett Lee and Ben Hilfenhaus. Brett is making a good recovery from his toe injury and will be given rigorous fitness tests before Friday's ODI fixture."

Inverarity said the panel didn't want to burden opener Dave Warner with the captaincy in Clarke's absence.
"After careful consideration the NSP has asked Ricky Ponting if he would captain the Australian ODI team in Michael Clarke's absence. David Warner is a young player making his way. He displays considerable leadership potential, but the NSP is of the view that he should not, at this moment, have the added responsibility of captaincy thrust on him."

Ponting has scored 6, 1 and 2 so far in the tournament.

Australia' s 14-man squad for the next two one-day internationals:
Michael Clarke (capt), Ricky Ponting (capt for Friday's match Sri Lanka), David Warner, Dan Christian, Xavier Doherty, Peter Forrest, Ben Hilfenhaus, David Hussey, Michael Hussey, Brett Lee, Mitchell Marsh, Clint McKay, Mitchell Starc, Matthew Wade. (Source: The Canberra Times with agencies)

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Ponting back as captain of Australia

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