Sydney: Alex Carey has been endorsed by Ricky Ponting to be Australia’s wicket-keeper at the World Cup, with the team’s batting coach also backing him as stand-in captain if Aaron Finch is injured.
The 27-year-old has enjoyed a rapid rise through the ranks with his calm demeanour and leadership qualities winning over the former skipper, who will be coach Justin Langer’s right-hand man at the tournament in England and Wales this year. “Alex Carey offers the best package as keeper,” Ponting, who played at five World Cups, told cricket.com.au when asked who he sees filling the role.
Chief selector Trevor Hohns recently mentioned Test skipper Tim Paine and the in-form Matthew Wade, as well Peter Handscomb, as other possible wicket-keeping options.
But Ponting believes that Carey deserves the opportunity to be in the WC squad after his performances in Australia’s recent eight-game winning streak. (AFP)
