An avid North Melbourne supporter, Ponting was joined by Australian paceman and fellow club supporter Peter Siddle for a tour of the club's state-of-the-art facilities by Roos' champion Glenn Archer.
"This facility's right up there. Even a lot of the stuff that we are involved with in cricket around Australia is probably nowhere near the level of this," Ponting told kangaroos.com.au.
"I'm sure the older generation of players that were here are a bit envious of what the young guys have got."
Ponting’s arrival provided another highlight for members of the Brighton Beach Kangaroos Junior Football Club which was visiting North Melbourne after its inception several months ago.
While Ponting generously gave up his time to sign autographs and pose for photos with the children, the star batsman was himself excited about meeting Brad Scott for the first time.
The 35 year-old saying he’d heard nothing but positive feedback about the Kangaroos' new coach.
"I've listened to a lot of guys that he played with and against and he's got a very strong reputation as a player, so I'm sure he'll do a great job as coach as well.”
While the Australia captain has a busy couple of months ahead leading the Aussies against the West Indies and then New Zealand, he admits he can't wait for the chance to see his beloved North Melbourne in action this coming season. A significantly lighter cricket calendar allowing for more time to attend games in 2010.
"I've got a few months off in April and May so I'm looking forward to getting down to a few more games this season than I have in the last couple and just enjoy watching the boys go round."
Ponting will pad up again on Friday night as the Australian's enter their final one-day battle with the West Indies at the MCG.
To view the full video of our chat with Ricky Ponting, check out the mini player on the right hand side of the page at kangaroos.com.au.
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| Ponting meets North youngster Jack Ziebell in the club's new gymnasium. |
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| Ponting with members of the Brighton Beach Kangaroos Junior Football Club. |
