Sydney, Nov 28: Ricky Ponting was today named Australia's Test captain to replace Steve Waugh who is retiring at the end of the upcoming series against India. Cricket Australia chairman Bob Merriman said the board accepted the recommendation of the national selection panel to appoint Ponting as Steve Waugh's successor in early January.

"Ricky has proven to be an outstanding international captain and leader.. His record leading up to and through this year's ICC World Cup, in the West Indies and in recent weeks in India speaks for itself," Merriman said.

Waugh, 38, announced his retirement on Wednesday, effective at the end of the fourth test match against India at the Sydney Cricket Ground from January 2-6. Merriman said the timing of the announcement was made so that the players could focus on the important series against India.

"Given the strong public interest in the issue, we thought it would be prudent to avoid any unnecessary speculation and distraction throughout the summer by making this announcement," he said.

Bureau Report