Ricky Ponting is often seen as one of the top cricketers ever and is considered Australia's best batsman after the legendary Sir Donald Bradman. With his fierce batting approach, outstanding leadership skills, and a pull shot that many admire, Ponting has made a lasting impact on the world of cricket throughout his impressive career.

Batting achievements and notable milestones

Ponting kicked off his Test career against Sri Lanka in Perth during the 1995-96 season. Even though he got out for 96 in that game, his skills were clear to see. In the following years, he solidified his place in the Australian batting order, known for his knack for taking on bowlers effortlessly. His famous pull shot turned into one of cricket's most recognizable moves.

What really stands out in Ponting's career is his incredible consistency at the crease. He wrapped up his Test journey with 13,378 runs, making him the second-highest run-scorer for Australia and third overall when he hung up his boots, boasting an average of 51.85. With 41 Test centuries, only a few have surpassed him in the history of the game. In ODIs, he piled up 13,704 runs and hit 30 centuries, cementing his status as one of the greatest limited-overs players.

One of the standout moments in his career was hitting 10,000 Test runs in 2008, becoming the seventh player to do so. His ability to switch gears across formats made him a key figure in Australian cricket for almost 20 years.

Leading and being a captain

Ponting's record as a captain is truly one of a kind. He took the reins of the ODI team in 2002 and guided Australia to their third World Cup win in 2003, then followed it up with another title in 2007, making it a hat-trick.

In Test cricket, he led Australia in 77 matches, securing 48 wins, which was a record at that time. His leadership included an impressive run of 16 straight Test victories, matching the record set by his predecessor, Steve Waugh. Ponting also steered Australia through an incredible 26-match unbeaten streak in 50-over World Cups before he stepped down after the 2011 tournament. His bold and confident approach perfectly captured the spirit of Australian cricket during its peak years.

Ponting's career is packed with amazing accomplishments, but it wasn't all smooth sailing. His first Ashes series as captain in 2005 ended in a loss, with England taking back the urn after 18 years. But he made a strong comeback, leading Australia to a 5-0 sweep just two years later.

Even with his impressive track record, Australia faced two more Ashes losses while he was at the helm. Still, these bumps in the road didn't take away from his legacy as one of the greatest players ever.

Beyond his batting and captaincy, Ponting was a standout fielder, racking up 196 catches in Test cricket. His quick reflexes and athleticism raised the bar for fielding, particularly in the slips and at point.

Ponting hung up his boots from international cricket in December 2012 after Australia lost a series to South Africa. He walked away with an impressive tally of 71 international centuries and more than 27,000 runs, cementing his legacy as one of the legends of the game.

Post-retirement, Ponting moved into coaching and commentary, passing on his knowledge and experience to up-and-coming cricketers.

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