Ponting's world record knock

Ponting's world record knock

Ponting, as was the case in 2003, was the star. His 164 from 105 deliveries - including 13 fours and nine sixes - was the third-highest total and second-fastest century (71 deliveries) by an Australian batsman. The innings also elevated him to third place on the one-day international century list (19), behind only Sachin Tendulkar and Sourav Ganguly.
When finally dismissed, caught on the mid-wicket fence by Boeta Dippenaar, Ponting was treated to a rousing standing ovation from a Johannesburg crowd generally regarded as among the most hostile in international cricket. But even such parochial fans could appreciate the mastery of what they had just witnessed, and Ponting responded in kind, raising his arms in triumph and gratitude.
However, he was hardly alone in brutalising an attack sorely missing Shaun Pollock, who withdrew prior to play with back spasms. In fact, it seemed the only thing that had changed from the 2003 World Cup final was the support cast, as Ponting's star power again proved overwhelming.
Instead of Damien Martyn, Michael Hussey (81 from 51), Simon Katich (79 from 90) and Adam Gilchrist (55 from 44) played the cameos as Australia attempted to become the second team in one-day international history to rebound from a 2-0 deficit and win a five-match series.
It should come as little surprise that Ponting's return from injury for the last three games coincided with Australia's return to the win column. He is, by far, Australia's most valuable player and the most destructive batsmen in one-day cricket.
Among the many highlights from his innings, Ponting raised his half-century with a six over mid-wicket off Jacques Kallis - part of a stunning sequence that saw him advance from 40 to 66 in just six balls. He later sent another Kallis offering over the mid-on grandstand, stopping play for several minutes while the ball was located. Kallis finished with 0-70 from six overs - but he was in good company. Makhaya Ntini, Andrew Hall, Telemachus and Shaun Kemp were all smashed for at least eight runs an over.
Without Pollock's line and length to contend with, Australia looked to attack the opening combination of Ntini and Hall. Gilchrist, in particular, was aggressive after overcoming a scratchy start. He was eventually removed by a brilliant catch from Hall, but not before he'd reached his 44th ODI half-century.

Full name Ricky Thomas Ponting
Born December 19, 1974, Launceston, Tasmania
Current age 35 years 102 days
Major teams Australia, ICC World XI, Kolkata Knight Riders, Somerset, Tasmania
Nickname Punter
Playing role Higher middle order batsman
Batting style Right-hand bat
Bowling style Right-arm medium
Height 1.78 m
Education Mowbray Primary; Brooks Senior High School, Launceston