Why do the Aussies seem intent on showing blinding loyalty to a man that averages in the mid 20's during the last year, yet drop/chop and change youngsters like Hughes/Khawaja with the excuse that they are 'out of form'. Dont get me wrong, Ponting is a living legend - averaging over 50 in a career lasting over a decade in test cricket is astonishing and he deservers his place in history. However, he seriously risks undermining many of his achievements by sticking around and blocking the way for talented youngsters to gain valuable experience at Test level. If Ponting is half the man we are lead to believe and if he thinks he still has something give at the highest level, he should be made to do the honourable thing and go back to state cricket to find his form. What kind of message does it send to young players when they are the ones to be sent back instead? In all honesty, as an England fan, long may this ridiculous charade continue. They've given Test caps to no fewer than 9 players in 2011 and 23 in the last 2 years. No wonder they lose at home to New Zealand??!!! Stick with your youngsters chaps - Clarke, Hussey and Johnson can provide the experience..... stick with Zimmer Frame Ricky and the next few Ashes series could be very one way.
I hope your right mate because ponting has a history of doing well in boxing day tests. Anyway, hughes and khawaja do not seem to be very consistent or skilled. Hughes relies on his partner getting of to a good start (watson or warner), and tends to get out playing poor shots. Khawaja does not have one spot in the batting line up and has been chopped and changed to much. Daniel Christian apparently has a chance of playing because he provides another bowling option.
Australian opening stocks are thin on the ground. Dave Warner is a very good player when it comes to the short game, but struggles in the longer one. Cowan is suss, Marsh at 3 is in and out, but is just returning from injury. Ponting is needed. Even the middle order is soft. These are hard times. Ponting today at least gave the home team a shot at a score.
