Published: Jan 21, 2017, 07:18 PM (IST)
Edited: Jan 21, 2017, 07:18 PM (IST)
Former skipper Ricky Ponting has backed swashbuckling batsman Aaron Finch to take over the reins of the T20I side for the three-match series against Sri Lanka next month. Ponting, who will take on the assistant coach role for Australia for the first time alongside former pacer Jason Gillespie and under coach Justin Langer in the series, feels the Victorian is the right man to lead in Steven Smith’s absence. Regular captain Smith will be in India for the four-Test series which starts a day after the third T20I.
Ponting reasoned his preference for Finch, as the 30-year-old explosive opener has the experience of leading the Kangaroos in the shortest format between 2014 and 2016 for a six-match tenure. “He’s been captain in the past, he’s in terrific form and you’d think he’s going to be in the team,” the 168-Test veteran told. “I’m not sure what other names the selectors are tossing around, but to me it seems like a pretty good fit,” he added. However, Finch has been overlooked for the ongoing five ODI series between Pakistan as Australia have opted for Usman Khawaja as opener along with David Warner. Both the openers have not had a pleasant run in the series but will look to eradicate their flaws in the remaining two games.
Preview: Pakistan vs Australia, 4th ODI at SCG
Australia lead the five ODI series 2-1 after which they will host Sri Lanka in the shorter format but their main focus in on the India tour, starting from February 23.
