Ponting returns to captaincy

Australian selectors have asked former captain Rickey Ponting to lead the side in the Commonwealth Bank tri-series ODI against Sri Lanka in Sydney on February 17 - an unsual move given that past captains are seldom given a sniff at the top job again.

A hamstring injury to Michael Clarke, the captain, will keep him out of the match. However, Clarke will captain Australia in the next two ODIs, including the game against India in Brisbane on February 19.

Chief selector John Inverarity said here on Tuesday, “After careful consideration, the National Selection Panel (NSP) has aked Rickey Ponting if he would captain team in Michael Clarke's absence.”

Dashing opener David Warner is the vice-captain in the side but Inverarity said, “David Warner is a young player making his way. He displays considerable leadership potential, but the NSP is of the

opinion that he should not, at the moment, have the added responsibility of captaincy thrust on him.”

The selection panel chief elaborated, “David has been gaining valuable experience under Michael Clarke's captaincy and now he will have the opportunity to grow his leadership skills further as vice-captain to Ricky Ponting. In making this decision the NSP reminded itself of the fact that Ricky Ponting led the winning Australian ICC Cricket World Cup teams in 2003 and 2007. The NSP appreciates the fact that Ricky is prepared to accept this responsibility in the wider interests of the team."

Paceman Ryan Harris, carrying minor niggles, have been dropped from the squad. Brett Lee, who has made a miraculous recovery from a broken bone in his left foot, has been included. The experienced paceman will, however, have to undergo a fitness test ahead of the match.

Swing bowler Ben Hilfenhaus, who was in the side as injury cover for the second game, has been inducted in the side. Wicket-keeper batsman Matthew Wade continues to keep Brad Haddin out.

Inverarity revealed key all-rounder Shane Watson was making good progress from his fitness concerns. Watson has taken part in grade cricket without the calf injury playing up and is now poised to play

Shield cricket.

The sqaud for Australia's next three ODIs: M. Clarke (captain, from the match against India in Brisbane from Sunday), R. Ponting (captain for Friday's match against Sri Lanka in Sydney), D. Warner, M. Wade, M. Hussey, D. Hussey, P. Forrest, D. Christian, M. Marsh, B. Lee, C. McKay, M. Starc, B. Hilfenhaus,D. Xoherty