Ponting says reports of disharmony are a long way from the mark

Australian captain Ricky Ponting has decided to opt out of their final one-day international against Sri Lanka, in order to get more practice in the longer form of the game. Ponting will instead play for Tasmania in their Sheffield Shield clash with Queensland next week.
Full story: Sydney Morning Herald

Ponting, meanwhile, has angrily dismissed "completely made up" reports of disharmony in the Australian dressing room as the crunch Ashes series looms. "Some of those things reported were a long, long way from the mark," said Ponting.
Full story: Sydney Morning Herald

Australia all-rounder Shane Watson says he is drawing inspiration from the Ashes heroics of England legends Sir Ian Botham and Andrew Flintoff. "To see everything Freddie Flintoff achieved in 2005, to hear and see footage of what Ian Botham did in '81, those things are very inspirational to me," said Watson.
Full story: Sydney Daily Telegraph

An editorial in one Australian newspaper again paints a bleak scene for the hosts. It starts: "Over-rated, over-indulged and, in some cases, overpaid...not a great formula if you are trying to assemble a winning cricket team. Australian cricket has lost its mojo because it lacks the talent and has become soft and indulgent. Many players are getting huge money and national caps without earning either."
Full story: The Herald Sun

Listen to the Ashes live on Test Match Special on BBC 5 live sports extra, Radio 4 LW and online (UK users only) - series starts 25 November 2010.Archive: Relive past Ashes series

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version