North Melbourne pays tribute to Ricky Ponting on a storied international career following the announcement of his retirement from international cricket on Thursday.
Ponting scored over 13,000 runs in 167 Test matches before Friday’s Third Test against South Africa. In a career filled with highlights, he averaged more than 52 over an 18-year Test career.
Earlier this year Ponting stopped by Aegis Park to chat to the newly formed leadership group and impart some wisdom about his time at the top of the tree.
In March 2012, The Ponting Foundation began a three-year community partnership with North Melbourne. As a charity that raises funds to help young Australians with cancer, there were items auctioned which included the opportunity to meet with Kangaroos’ players and win Andrew Swallow’s signed jumper from his first match as North captain.
Interim CEO Cam Vale shared his thoughts on Ponting following the announcement.
"Ricky has always been incredibly generous to the club as the number one ticket holder. His work with The Ponting Foundation has given numerous young Australians suffering from cancer comfort through a wide range of services and programs.
"We hope to see him often at Aegis Park after his cricketing commitments conclude, as he is a figure the playing group looks up to and respects very highly.
“Everyone associated with North Melbourne Football Club congratulates Ricky on his outstanding International Cricket career as one of the greatest cricketers this country has ever produced.”