Tim Paine is the best keeper in Australia: Ricky Ponting

Former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting has backed ‘comeback man’ Tim Paine, who has made a return to the Test side after a gap of seven years. It was Ponting, who presented Paine with the Baggy Green cap in the year 2010, and he feels that the time away from international cricket will be a blessing in disguise for the 32-year-old stumper.The first Ashes Test match begins on 23rd November in Brisbane.

Ponting added that Piane has never been dropped from the squad and that he was sidelined due to injuries. The legendary former cricketer said that Paine is the best wicketkeeper in Australia, and his game with the bat has also developed over the years.

Improved batsman

“I don’t think there’s ever been any doubt about his wicketkeeping ability which is the reason why he had never been dropped from the Australian team. I’ve said for a long time, that he’s clearly the best keeper in the country and over the years we’ve seen glimpses of how good a batsman he actually is,” Ponting was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au.

“The thing about him is, he hasn’t actually played that much cricket because of the injuries he’s had. Two whole years off and then the last few years he’s been in and out of the state team as well,” said Ponting, who led the Australian charge in four Ashes campaigns.

Paine has looked after him well: Ponting

Ponting feels that if Paine can contribute with some solid performances in the initial games then he can see himself in the rest of the series as well.”Without playing much cricket he’s always looked after himself exceptionally well. He’s always the first one in the gym and he’s got a naturally fit and athletic body. If he can nail some good performances these first few Test matches then that will obviously secure his spot for the rest of this series. Which could then mean he’s Australia’s gloveman for the next few years,”.