Former undisputed top dogs Australia are desperate to ensure Ricky Ponting ends his career in style by reclaiming the number one ranking from South Africa in the final Test starting on Friday. The Australians have not been at the summit of Test cricket since 2009 but draws in the first two Tests mean they can replace the Proteas as the number one team with a win in Perth. South Africa only need a draw to retain their crown.
Captain Michael Clarke said Australia, currently ranked number three in the world, were determined to see Ponting's stellar international career end on a high note. "It will only give us more inspiration, there is no doubt about that," Clarke said of Ponting's surprise retirement.
South African skipper Graeme Smith said Ponting was the "most competitive man I have ever played against" and conceded his retirement would fire up the Australians. However, he said the Proteas were ready for the challenge. "That is not for us to worry about," he said of Ponting's decision and the impact it might have on the match. "Our job is getting ourselves ready and competing. From our perspective, nothing really changes.
Australia could field a completely revamped bowling attack, with their three fast bowlers from the second Test in Adelaide, which ended on Monday, all ruled out. They are also considering going with a four-man pace attack, relegating spinner Nathan Lyon to 12th man. Clarke said Peter Siddle and Ben Hilfenhaus were still too fatigued from Adelaide to play in Perth, while James Pattinson has been sidelined by a side injury.
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