Warne received a 12-month ban for taking a banned diuretic

Leg-spinner Warne will play for Victoria 2nd XI on 11 February, 12 months after his suspension began.

But Ponting said he would need time to prove he is ready to begin Australia's series in Sri Lanka on 20 February.

"I imagine it's going to be pretty hard for him to be picked straight into the one-day squad without having played any cricket," Ponting said.

"I'd love to have him back in my one-day team - he's a world class bowler in both forms of the game - and I'd love to have him back in the Test side as well.

"Let's just hope he gets back there."

Warne announced his retirement from the one-day game shortly before last year's World Cup, but his subsequent lay-off may have forced a re-think.

Ponting also gave his backing to out-of-form fast bowler Brett Lee.

We just thought he was a little bit flat so we gave him a couple of days off Ponting on Brett Lee

Australia fastest bowler was overlooked for Australia's opening two wins in the one-day VB Series against India and Zimbabwe, as the hosts moved to the top of the table.

"It's been a tough week for him but he's been pretty upbeat," Ponting went on.

"I'm sure you'll see his performances turn around in the next few games."

Lee, who has 137 wickets at 21.43 in 73 ODIs, is seeking specialist help from pace great Dennis Lillee, particularly over reducing recent trouble with no-balls.

But Ponting believes Lee - who has bowled 205.5 overs in the past five weeks as he recovers from ankle surgery and a stomach muscle problem - just needs a break.

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"He's done a lot of bowling since he's come back to Sheffield Shield [domestic]cricket and then back in the Test team.

"He's had to work very hard in every game he's played and he's bowled a lot of overs.

"We just thought he was a little bit flat so we gave him a couple of days off to get him to liven up again."

Ponting said Lee's role in the side would change when Glenn McGrath, who missed the entire home season with an ankle injury, returns to fitness.