Ricky Ponting appointed as Australia's assistant coach for WC
Melbourne, Feb 9 (IBNS): Australia has appointed former captain Ricky Ponting as Assistant Coach of the national side for the upcoming 50-over World Cup to be played in England this summer.
He will work alongside coach Justin Langer at the World Cup in June and July, confirmed Cricket Australia.
In a statement, Cricket Australia said Ponting's appointment is part of "changes to the coaching structure (that) will see him focus on working closely with the ODI batting group".
“This appointment also provides an opportunity for Graeme Hick to focus on preparation for the Ashes,” said interim High Performance Executive General Manager Belinda Clark.
“With two major events back to back we believe it is important to focus a number of staff specifically on one event. The appointment of Ricky is a part of this overall strategy.
“Ricky will assist Justin across a number of key areas including strategy and game-plan, but he will also work closely with and mentor the batting group as they prepare for the English conditions."
Ponting and Langer had played together for several years.
Australia are current World Cup champions.
Under Ponting's leadership, India had won the title in 2003 and 2007.
Australia will play to win the trophy for the sixth time this time.
In his career, Ponting had earlier worked as an assistant with Australia’s T20 side in early 2018 and 2017.
He was also a part of the 1999 World Cup winning Australia side.
It was the last time when the World Cup was held in England.
“Ricky knows what’s required to win World Cups, and I know he will be a valuable mentor to not just the batting group, but the broader squad as we focus our attention on defending our World Cup title,” Langer said in a statement.
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