Selfless Ponting a natural choice

Ricky Ponting’s pedigree, experience and selflessness made him a natural choice for Mumbai Indians coach, franchise owner Nita Ambani has revealed.

The former Australian captain was appointed coach of the Indian Premier League team late last year, replacing New Zealand’s John Wright.

Ponting had previously served as Mumbai skipper and as a team mentor.

“He has been integral part of Mumbai for the last two seasons and hence it was natural for him to take over as coach,” Ambani told the Times of India. 

Watch: Ponting batting master class

She praised the “selflessness” of Ponting’s decision to step down as Mumbai skipper midway through the 2013 IPL season, having scored 52 runs at 10.40 from the first six matches of the tournament.

The Mumbai Indians went on to win the 2013 title after Rohit Sharma took over the captaincy.

Ambani said Ponting had played a huge role in mentoring the new skipper, who will again lead the side this season, heading a squad featuring Australians Aaron Finch, Josh Hazlewood and Aiden Blizzard.

Team preview: Mumbai Indians

“It's not often that a captain steps aside in the middle of a season. Ricky not only stepped down from captaincy but also left himself out of the playing XI,” Ambani said.

“That spoke volumes about his professionalism and his selfless approach towards the team's goal.

“He immediately took up the role of a motivator for the team and played mentor to the new captain Rohit.”

She said Ponting’s approach to cricket made him an ideal coach.

“Ricky's approach towards the game is refreshing. He brings in a lot of energy, positivity and years of experience,” she said.

Australians in the 2015 IPL

• Chennai Super Kings: Mike Hussey, Andrew Tye
• Delhi Daredevils: Nathan Coulter-Nile, Gurinder Sandhu, Travis Head, Marcus Stoinis
• Kings XI Punjab: George Bailey, Mitchell Johnson, Glenn Maxwell, Shaun Marsh
• Kolkata Knight Riders:Pat Cummins, Brad Hogg
• Mumbai Indians: Josh Hazlewood, Aaron Finch, Aiden Blizzard
• Rajasthan Royals: Shane Watson, James Faulkner, Steve Smith, Ben Cutting
• Royal Challengers Bangalore: Mitchell Starc, Nic Maddinson, Sean Abbott
• Sunrisers Hyderabad: David Warner, Moises Henriques