Ponting is committed to Surrey

Published on 22/02/2013 00:00

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has ruled out the possibility of making a stunning Ashes return after agreeing to join Surrey this summer.

The county announced yesterday that Ponting, who retired from international cricket in December, would join them on a two-month deal from June.

The 38-year-old will initially cover the absence of captain Graeme Smith while he is with South Africa at the Champions Trophy, for up to four 
LV= County Championship First Division games.

Those matches will come at the same time as Australia make their preparations for the Ashes, which begin at Trent Bridge on 10 July.

“It will be a very strange experience,” said Ponting. “At some stages only a few hundred miles, or a couple of hours, away there will be a Test match going on between Australia and England and I won’t be a part of it.

“I’ve had an opportunities to think through those scenarios since I’ve been retired from 
international cricket. I think just to be in the country while a series like that is happening will be a lot of fun.

“Once I’m there I’ll be absolutely 100 per cent dedicated to making sure I do the best I can by Surrey County Cricket Club.”