Former captain Ricky Ponting has been named Australia’s coach for the 2019 World Cup.

Ponting’s appointment comes a day after former assistant coach David Saker resigned with immediate effect.

‘I’m really excited to be joining the coaching group for this year’s World Cup,’ said Ponting.

‘I’ve enjoyed my previous short-term roles with the ODI and T20 Teams, but World Cups take on a whole different meaning for me.

‘I have enormous confidence in the players available to the selectors and know we will be as tough to beat as any team in this year’s World Cup.’

Head coach Justin Langer welcomed the acquisition of an ex-player who captained Australia to two World Cup titles in 2003 and 2007.

‘Ricky knows what’s required to win World Cups, and I know he will be a valuable mentor to not just the batting group, but the broader squad as we focus our attention on defending our World Cup title,’ added Langer.

‘Ricky and I have worked together with the Australian men’s team in the past, he is an extremely driven coach who is fully invested in the players’ development and improving Australian cricket.

‘He has an impressive understanding of the game, he knows what’s required to prepare and perform at the elite level, and we can’t wait for him to get started working with the squad.’

The 44-year-old Ponting will also work with the team during the limited-overs series against Pakistan and India that precede the World Cup in the United Kingdom.

Photo: Gallo