Having scored in excess of 13000 runs, Ricky Ponting is the most successful ODI batter that Australia has seen. Apart from that, Ponting also had a terrific contribution to the nation. In 2003 and 2007, he captained the team to two World Cups. At that time, Australia was dominant across formats and Ponting was the chief tormentor with the bat for the opposition. It was in 1995 against South Africa that Ponting donned his first ODI cap. On that note, here, we take a look at Australia’s playing XI when Ricky Ponting made his ODI Debut.
Openers: Mark Taylor (C) and Greg Blewett
Mark Taylor and Greg Blewett were the openers in Australia’s playing XI when Ricky Ponting made his ODI Debut. Mark Taylor was a legendary opener and skipper for Australia. He was the captain when Ponting also made his Test debut. Greg Blewett played around 30 ODIs for Australia and apart from opening the batting, he also did well with his medium-pace bowling.
Middle-Order: David Boon, Ricky Ponting and Ian Healy (WK)
David Boon and Ian Healy were constants in the middle order back then for Australia. Although Ricky Ponting sealed the No.3 place later on, it was at No.6 that he started his ODI career. He scored just one run in his debut game.
All-Rounders: Mark Waugh and Steve Waugh
Mark Waugh and Steve Waugh were the all-rounders in Australia’s playing XI when Ricky Ponting made his ODI Debut. The Waugh brothers always added superb balance to the Australian squad. Both the players were not required to bowl in this game as the Proteas were all out for just 123. Steve Waugh scored an unbeaten 44 to help his side cross the line in a tricky chase.
Bowlers: Paul Reiffel, Shane Warne, Tim May and Glenn McGrath
While Paul Reiffel is known to this generation as a popular umpire, it needs to be noted that he also had a terrific playing career. He played 92 ODIs for Australia. Shane Warne and Glenn McGrath are the two bowlers who helped Ponting to dominate world cricket. They were also a part of this game while right-arm off-spinner Tim May was the specialist spinner in this XI.
