With 13378 runs, Ricky Ponting is the highest run-getter for his nation in Tests. Not just that, he was also a successful skipper and in ODIs, too, there are plenty of records that he broke. It was in 1995 against Sri Lanka at Perth that Ponting played his first Test. Australia won that game easily and Ponting actually had a good game with the bat, too. Here, we take a look at Australia’s playing XI when Ricky Ponting made his Test Debut.
Openers: Michael Slater and Mark Taylor (C)
Michael Slater and Mark Taylor were the openers in Australia’s playing XI when Ricky Ponting made his Test Debut. It was a relatively short international career but Slater played close to 75 Tests for Australia. In this particular game, he hit a double century. Mark Taylor captained Australia for 50 consecutive games. Before Ponting, Australia enjoyed a fine stint under him.
Middle-Order: David Boon, Ricky Ponting, Stuart Law and Ian Healy (WK)
Ricky Ponting was a part of the batting line-up that included stalwarts like David Boon and Stuart Law. Ponting scored 96 runs in his debut innings before he was caught LBW by Chaminda Vaas. Ian Healy was the consistent presence behind the stumps back then. He was not required to bat in this game, though.
All-Rounders: Mark Waugh and Brendan Julian
Mark Waugh and Brendan Julian were the all-rounders in Australia’s playing XI when Ricky Ponting made his Test Debut. Mark Waugh played at No.4 and scored 111 runs in this game. Just like his brother, Mark also contributed a lot with the ball. In this game, too, he bowled a total of 7 overs. Brendan Julian played seven tests for the nation but had a memorable FC career.
Bowlers: Shane Warne, Glenn McGrath and Craig McDermott
Craig McDermott is not remembered much but actually, he did have a great career. In 71 games, he picked a total of 291 wickets. In Glenn McGrath and Shane Warner, Australia got two brilliant bowlers who helped the team dominate across conditions. Brendan Julian
