The controversial former Aussie Captain Ricky Ponting was deeply criticized by the Australian press frequently for his waning performance and across the world for his insane criticism. In his bad patch since some time, receives another cold shoulder from former wicket keeper Ian Healy (in a Media report) who said Ponting has lost his class and had a big problem with his natural techniques which now a days lack luster. He felt the ideal time for the veteran to retire, is if he fails to fire in the second innings of the ongoing Johannesburg Test against South Africa.

The Australian batting department is not at its best at the moment, and the biggest worry for the side is the poor form of their ace batsman, Ponting. The former skipper did nothing impressive in the first innings and lost his wicket without troubling the scorecard. The Kangaroos achieved a 30-run lead in the first innings, but the home side is still in the second game's driving seat, as they are expected to set a challenging target for Michael Clarke and company. The Aussies are currently 1-0 down in the series, and will have to win the Johannesburg Test in order to avoid an embarrassing series defeat. Hence, Ponting, who is under immense pressure, needs to spark not only for the good of his side but also to retain his place in the national setup.

Since the Ashes last December, Ponting has averaged just 14.15 from 13 innings. In that time, the 36-year-old hasn't scored a half century and has seven single-figure scores and three ducks to his name.