Shadab Khan opens up on admiration for Ricky Ponting

KARACHI: Pakistan all-rounder Shadab Khan has expressed his admiration for former Australia captain Ricky Ponting, describing him as an exceptional leader whose tactical understanding of cricket has always inspired him.

Speaking in a recent interview with a local sports platform, Shadab said he feels fortunate to have met Ponting and discussed the game with him, adding that the Australian legend's sharp cricketing mind is evident even during his commentary because he is consistently "far ahead of the game".

"I think Ricky is amazing, and I am fortunate to have met him and spoken with him about the game. His leadership skills are evident even when he is doing cricket commentary because you can sense how far ahead of the game he is. I have always looked up to him," Shadab said.

Ponting is widely regarded as one of Australia's greatest captains, having led the national side through one of the most dominant periods in cricket history.

He captained Australia in 77 Test matches, winning 48 for an impressive win percentage of 62.34. In One-Day Internationals, he led the team in 229 matches, recording 164 victories at a remarkable win rate of 71.61%.

Under Ponting's captaincy, Australia won back-to-back ICC Cricket World Cups in 2003 and 2007, remaining unbeaten throughout both tournaments. He was also a key member of Australia's 1999 World Cup-winning side as a player.

Overall, Ponting remains the only Australian captain to have lifted two ODI World Cup titles and is widely recognised as one of the most successful leaders in the history of international cricket.

Meanwhile, Shadab was recently appointed captain of the Desert Vipers for the third edition of the Global Super League (GSL), which will be held from 23 July to 1 August.

The Pakistan leg-spinner replaces Australian all-rounder Chris Green, who was initially named captain but was forced to withdraw from the tournament after sustaining a hand injury while playing county cricket in England.

The 2026 Global Super League will feature five teams competing in 11 matches, with all fixtures scheduled to be played at Providence Stadium in Guyana.