Ponting looks to end duck streak

Veteran hopes to contribute in second Test against South Africa.

ADELAIDE: Ricky Ponting is hoping a return to the Adelaide Oval, his favoured hunting ground, will kill his run of ducks against South Africa in the second Test starting tomorrow.

The former captain was out for nought in Australia’s massive first-innings of 565 for five in last week’s drawn first Brisbane Test — his third duck in four Test innings against the Proteas.

“I don’t shy away from it,” said Ponting. “I’ve been around enough and played in enough high pressure situations, whether it’s a big game or a game where you’re under pressure because you haven’t scored runs yourself. I was disappointed with all the work I put in pre-season and to make a little error like that was disappointing. But it’s a fresh start this week. When it’s my turn to bat I must make sure I’m one of the guys who contributes.”

Christian suspended for dressing room damage

Meanwhile, all-rounder Dan Christian has been handed a one-match ban for repeatedly damaging dressing rooms following his dismissals in games for South Australia.

The South Australian Cricket Association (SACA) said Christian, who was Test 12th man last summer, has been suspended for this week’s Sheffield Shield match against Victoria for damaging change rooms three times this season. But Christian, 29, has been told his suspension will not prevent any future Test selection.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 21^st, 2012.