Tim Paine Could Turn Out to be the Solution to Australia’s Wicket-Keeping Woes Feels Ricky Ponting

Nov 18, 2017 at 5:18 PM

facebook iconlinkedin iconmail icontwitter iconWhatsApp iconTelegram icon
Tim Paine Could Turn Out to be the Solution to Australia’s Wicket-Keeping Woes Feels Ricky Ponting

The selection of wicket-keeper Tim Paine in the Australian squad for the Magellan Ashes has been criticised by many former cricketers and pundits but former Aussie World Cup winning skipper Ricky Ponting feels that the Tasmanian might well turn out to be the answer to Australia’s wicket-keeping woes in the recent past.

Despite not being Australia’s first choice keeper, he was drafted into the squad quite dramatically. His career almost ended after sustaining successive finger injuries. However, Ponting who presented Paine his maiden test cap way back in 2010 feels that Paine’s time away from the game might well turn out to be a blessing in disguise.

“I don’t think there’s ever been any doubt about his wicketkeeping ability which is the reason why he had never been dropped from the Australian team.

“I’ve said for a long time, that he’s clearly the best keeper in the country and over the years we’ve seen glimpses of how good a batsman he actually is.

“The thing about him is, he hasn’t actually played that much cricket because of the injuries he’s had. Two whole years off and then the last few years he’s been in and out of the state team as well.

Tim Paine, Tasmania. Sheffield Shield between Tasmania and NSW. Tasmania’s first innings. Day 1. Blundstone Arena, Bellerive Tasmania

“Without playing much cricket he’s always looked after himself exceptionally well. He’s always the first one in the gym and he’s got a naturally fit and athletic body.

“If he can nail some good performances these first few Test matches then that will obviously secure his spot for the rest of this series. Which could then mean he’s Australia’s gloveman for the next few years.”

Paine started off his first-class career as a specialist opener almost a decade ago. Ponting feels that the wicket-keeper is so highly rated as a batsman that his returns invariably tends to fall short of the expectations. Barring a fifty against England during a tour game, Paine has failed to score a half-century in first-class cricket in the last three years. He will want to change that trend in the upcoming Ashes.

However, Ponting pointed out that Paine scored a brilliant 92 in only his 3rd Test during Australia’s tour of India in 2010 and had the mental toughness to succeed at difficult points in his career.

Ricky Ponting | Delhi Daredevils |
Ricky Ponting. Image Courtesy: Getty Images

“That’s the thing that’s held him back from playing a lot more for Tasmania in the last few years,” said Ponting. “Everyone knows he’s talented with the bat, so when he doesn’t make those big scores it’s almost a negative against him.

“If you can get an average of 30 or 40 out of your wicketkeeper that’s all you need if your top order is doing their job. Technically he’s very correct. When you watch him in the Big Bash you just think, ‘how has this guy not actually scored more Shield runs?’

“When he’s out there playing well, he looks as good as any of the other batters around the country. There’s no doubting there’s a lot of talent there and he’s made a Test match 92 before in tough conditions in India, so let’s hope he can repay the faith the selectors have shown – I’m sure he will,” Ponting added.

Related Article
Watch: Australia Players’ Dramatic Appeal After Being Denied A Run-Out In 2nd T20I Against West Indies
Watch: Australia Players’ Dramatic Appeal After Being Denied A Run-Out In 2nd T20I Against West Indies

Feb 13, 2024, 2:54 PM


David Warner Creates History As He Return To Action For Australia After Test Retirement
David Warner Creates History As He Return To Action For Australia After Test Retirement

Feb 9, 2024, 3:28 PM


No Steve Smith As Aaron Finch Names His Australia Playing XI For T20 World Cup 2024
No Steve Smith As Aaron Finch Names His Australia Playing XI For T20 World Cup 2024

Feb 8, 2024, 11:28 AM


Mitchell Marsh To Play Against West Indies Despite Testing Positive For Covid-19
Mitchell Marsh To Play Against West Indies Despite Testing Positive For Covid-19

Feb 8, 2024, 10:06 AM


AUS vs WI: He Smashed It, What An Idiot, That Is Just Unforgivable – Mark Waugh Lambasts Kjorn Ottley For Gifting His Wicket Away
AUS vs WI: He Smashed It, What An Idiot, That Is Just Unforgivable – Mark Waugh Lambasts Kjorn Ottley For Gifting His Wicket Away

Feb 7, 2024, 12:58 PM


He’s Got A Bright Future: Steve Smith Heaps Praise On Xavier Bartlett
He’s Got A Bright Future: Steve Smith Heaps Praise On Xavier Bartlett

Feb 7, 2024, 10:32 AM


Desktop Banner
Mobile Banner