T20 World Cup 2022: Ricky Ponting and Adam Gilchrist give words of wisdom to Aaron Finch's Australia

Two of Australia's all-time greats and World Cup winners (1999, 2003, 2007), Ricky Ponting and Adam Gilchrist highlighted steps for the national side to remain in the race of defending their title. Back in the 1999 World Cup, Australia were placed in a similar position as they had lost two of their first three matches and came from behind to clinch the coveted title.

The Aaron Finch-led side was thoroughly beaten by New Zealand in the opening match of the Super 12 stage in the ICC T20 World Cup 2022 by a margin of 89 runs. Ponting and Gilchrist, who were both a part of Australia's 1999 World Cup campaign offered Finch's-led side some suggestions ahead of the forthcoming fixtures.

Ricky Ponting and Adam Gilchrist voice their opinion

The legendary duo spoke in an interview with the International Cricket Council (ICC) and shared its opinion on Australia's title defence.

“It’s not the ideal situation the Australians find themselves in, a lot to think about, a lot to ponder on that opening performance, and it’s win at all costs to stay alive,” said Gilchrist.

“Honesty, I guess that’s the key thing, making sure if there is any little off-field issues, of which there are a few now for the Australians, they’ve got a bit to identify and work out, and maybe it’s not affecting them at all, but they just need to make sure they have clear heads as they lead into this next game,” he added.

When Ponting was asked how Australia will execute their plans at Perth Stadium against Sri Lanka, he said that the quick bowling artillery will need to make the most of the bouncy conditions and use the short ball to good effect.

“I think it’s fair to say that the Sri Lankans probably can expect their fair share of short-pitched balls over there, it’s a very lively wicket there, we know that, the bounce there is probably unlike anywhere else in the world. Maybe if you go across the road to the WACA where it’s been that way for 50 or 60 years,” said Ponting.

“It’ll be a tactic I think for the Australians right through this tournament with (Mitchell) Starc, (Pat) Cummins, (Josh) Hazlewood, (Marcus) Stoinis, and even (Mitchell) Marsh, and if (Cameron) Green plays, I reckon you’ll see all those guys use pretty much their quota of short balls right the way through.”