Ponting back in charge

With current leader Michael Clarke ruled out with a hamstring injury, Inverarity has turned to 37-year-old Ponting, who stepped down as captain after a highly-successful tenure in charge last March.

"After careful consideration the National Selection Panel (NSP) has asked Ricky Ponting if he would captain the Australian ODI team in Michael Clarke's absence," Inverarity said.

With over 13,000 Test runs and approaching 14,000 50-over runs to his name, the Tasmanian is one of his country's all-time greats, and has recently enjoyed a timely return to form, with scores of 134 and 221 in the Test whitewash of India reminiscent of Ponting before he was broken by England.

He came under increasing pressure as captain last winter after a 3-1 Ashes loss - the third he had presided over - and he stood down as the top man after a quarter-final exit at the World Cup.

Inverarity admits that opener David Warner is seen as Clarke's natural replacement but, at this stage in his development, would rather Ponting steer the ship.

He added: "David Warner is a young player making his way. He displays considerable leadership potential, but the NSP is of the view that he should not, at this moment, have the added responsibility of captaincy thrust on him.

"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."

Australia are hopeful Clarke will return for Sunday's fixture with Sri Lanka in Brisbane.