Clarke surprised by Ponting’s retirement decision – Cricket News Update
Australian skipper http://www.senore.com/Cricket/RT-Ponting-c2377’s imminent retirement.
An emotional Clarke, who accompanied the Punter at a hastily-called press conference, said that the Tasmanian star’s decision to quit Test cricket came as a surprise to him and the teammates, adding that the team was hurting over Ponting’s decision and that he would be sorely missed in the dressing room.
"I didn't have a feeling it was coming," http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Ricardo-Gouveia-c84824 spoke to me after Adelaide and obviously made his decision over the last few days. The boys (team) are obviously hurting right now. He's been an amazing player for a long time," the Australian skipper went on to add.
Ponting, the former Australian skipper, who will turn 38 next month, announced today, November 29, 2012, that he will bow out of international cricket after the third and final Test against http://www.senore.com/Cricket/South-Africa-c757, which gets underway in Perth on Friday.
The Tasmanian batting veteran started his Test cricket career back in December 1995 and has to date played in 167 matches, and has gone on to become the world’s second highest run scorer. By playing in the Perth Test, the Tasmanian star will equal former great http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Stephen-Rodger-Waugh-c91216’s Australian record of 168 Tests.
Pressure was building on him having failed in his last three innings against South Africa, during the drawn Tests in Brisbane and Adelaide - managing just 20 runs.
Whilst Ponting will be looking forward to ending his international career on a high, by hitting a blistering century in Perth, stakes will be high for the Aussies as well, as a win over the Proteas at WACA will propel them to the top of the http://www.senore.com/Cricket/ICC-World-Cup-2011-c100625 Test rankings, for the first time in more than three years.
"…my immediate focus - and the focus of the team - is on (Perth). It's an unbelievable opportunity in what is almost a grand final situation," said Punter at the press conference.
"I've prepared this week and I'm hungrier than ever. I want this win more than any game I've ever played in," he added further.
Clarke said that Ponting’s decision will have them fired up for the series decider against South Africa. "It will only give us more inspiration," said the Aussie skipper as he fought back tears.
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