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[mr_wickets]

Just seen the news that he is out for the first ICC game.

I'm not sure, but isn't this an ongoing injury he's had for years? Not so fussed about the ICC cup, but it would be a real shame if he was injured for the Ashes, although it would leave the door open for a certain Aussie batsmen currently racking up the runs for Surrey.......

[langer17]

Yeah, his back has been having issues for a while now. Doubt he'll play any of the Champions Trophy, just so he gives himself the best chance to play in the Ashes.

[PedalsMcgrew]

Whilst it would be great to think that Ponting might come out of retirement to play in the Ashes it doesn't say much about the Australian batting depth if he is the best option!

I can't see how Clarke is going to last 5 pretty much back to back test matches.......if he does it will be a miracle.

[mr_wickets]

I think the Aussies don't know their best XI and I'm not sure how willing they will be to draft in a 'A' player into the ashes side. I've grown up watching Ponting score runs, so 1 last blast would be great.

Either way, 5 test matches with a dodgey back isn't going to be easy and if he does play, will he be able to score the big runs australia need him to?

[Manormanic]

thing is, he has had te condition for years and missed only one or two games with it in all that time. I reckon as he'll be okay.

[Tail Ender]

thing is, he has had te condition for years and missed only one or two games with it in all that time. I reckon as he'll be okay.

He's had the back problem since his late teens, and it's degenerative so it's gradually going to get worse and worse. All he can do is manage it and he's done that well. The fourth test in India was the first Test he's missed through injury; so he was fit for the 92 consecutive tests he played (barring when he was dropped), in other words.