Ricky Ponting rates Indian batters as superior in overseas conditions

India is gearing up to defend the Border-Gavaskar Trophy as they wrap up their cricketing calendar year with a challenging tour of Australia. Captained by Rohit Sharma, the Indian team will face a formidable opponent in a five-Test series Down Under. The significance of this series is heightened by the fact that both teams are currently the top two contenders in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings, with India holding the No. 1 position and Australia ranked No. 2. India's recent track record in Australia adds an extra layer of anticipation to the series. On their previous two tours, in 2018-19 and 2020-21, India emerged victorious in the Test series, marking significant achievements in Australian conditions. This impressive history underscores the Indian team's growing prowess in challenging overseas environments.

Legendary Australian cricketer Ricky Ponting has remarked on the evolution of Indian batting, noting that the current lineup appears unfazed by the rigors of batting in foreign conditions. According to Ponting, the Indian batsmen have developed a robust technique and mental toughness, preparing them to excel on the global stage. As the two cricketing giants prepare to clash, the series promises to be a high-voltage contest with significant implications for the WTC standings and cricketing history.

"They won a game at the Gabba [in 2020-21], which just doesn't happen. I think their batsmen adapt to overseas batting conditions very well. I don't think they're as daunted by the Gabba or the Optus Oval, as they maybe once were. Maybe it is a selection thing, or they just don't fear the big stage anymore," said former Aussie captain Ricky Ponting in a recent interview. 

Ricky Ponting has credited India’s recent successes on the international cricket stage to several key factors, including the impact of the Indian Premier League (IPL). According to Ponting, the IPL's high-stakes environment and competitive nature have been instrumental in preparing Indian players for the challenges of international cricket. The cash-rich franchise league provides players with exposure to intense pressure situations and top-quality competition, which enhances their readiness for global contests.

Ponting also highlighted the impressive depth of India’s fast-bowling resources, which has become a significant strength in recent years. This depth has bolstered India’s performance, particularly in challenging conditions abroad. In addition, Ponting commended the strong leadership provided by captains like Virat Kohli, whose aggressive and strategic approach has been pivotal, and the contributions of coaches like Rahul Dravid. Dravid’s guidance and mentorship have been crucial in nurturing young talent and fostering a robust cricketing culture within the team.

Together, these elements—the IPL's rigorous competition, the burgeoning fast-bowling talent, and the effective leadership and coaching—have collectively contributed to India’s formidable standing in international cricket. As the team heads into their high-profile series against Australia, these factors will undoubtedly play a crucial role in their pursuit of success and their bid to defend the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

"Their fast-bowling depth is great. The leadership in the last 6-7 years has been strong, going back to Kohli's start of captaincy, played a big role in turning the cricket around and Dravid has continued the same in the recent four years. The influence of someone like that [Kohli] around a team would be great and they've got star players," Ponting noted.