By IANS,
Chandigarh : Australian cricket captain Ricky Ponting Tuesday said his boys are looking forward to a competitive tournament against India and want to improve their world Test ranking.
“Of course, ranking matters in international cricket. Right now we are at fourth spot, so we will try to win maximum matches to ensure an improvement in ranking. It would be really challenging for us to take on number one team India,” said Ponting, while talking to reporters here.
He added: “We are very confident that there would be a very competitive tournament against India. We all are very excited and would take on India as a strong group.”
Ponting feels that for the younger players in the team, the India series will be a great learning experience.
“India is a great place to learn. It would be real hard-work for fast bowlers to bowl on Indian wickets. I am actually excited about the prospects of our fast bowlers here; they are young guys, who are learning things very quickly,” said Ponting.
“From the last test series in India, we had learnt many things. India are a good side, for whom we should be very well prepared. They are coming together as a very strong group,” he pointed out.
Ponting said that even without local boy Yuvraj Singh, who was dropped due to lack of form, the Indian middle-order will be formidable.
“Yuvraj is a very strong player and he has been left out for the forthcoming Test match. But still India are a very formidable side. They have a very strong batting line up,” said Ponting.
On the personal front, Ponting said: “I am working very hard for the Test and One-day cricket series against India. I am trying to remain in best physical shape so that I can perform well. Besides, very good cricket, like Ashes and World Cup, is coming up and we all are working hard for them.”
On the Mohali pitch, where Australia will play their first Test, Ponting said: “I always enjoy playing in India and the Mohali pitch is one of my favourite grounds. It is very good, one of the fastest and bouncy pitches.”
Ponting was also happy with the security provided to the team.
“I am very satisfied with the security arrangements. I have full trust in people here. Besides, Cricket Australia also briefed us about the security issues regularly,” he said.