'Doesn't deserve it...': Ponting on Maxwell's bid for Test return

NEW DELHI: Former Australia captain

Ricky Ponting

has voiced his opinion against the immediate return of dashing all-rounder

Glenn Maxwell

to

Test cricket

, emphasizing the need for proven performance in First-Class matches.
Despite Maxwell's recent stellar displays in limited-overs cricket, Ponting believes that the 35-year-old must accumulate substantial First-Class runs to merit consideration for the red-ball format.

Maxwell, Australia's standout performer in the recent ODI World Cup, has played only seven Tests since his debut in 2013. Excluded from the ongoing

Test series

against Pakistan, Ponting stressed the importance of a substantial First-Class record for any player aspiring to join the Test squad.

"No one deserves a chance unless you've got a truckload of first-class runs behind you," Ponting asserted in a statement to 'Channel 7'.

"I'm a no; he doesn't deserve it. But, if he gets a chance to go back and make some first-class runs, then he can force his way back in.”
Maxwell's last Test appearance dates back to 2017 against Bangladesh in Chittagong, with all of his Test outings occurring in the Indian subcontinent.

Ponting's perspective aligns with the belief that Test selections should be earned through consistent performances in the longer format.
Former Australia player

Greg Blewett

didn't echo Ponting's sentiments, stating, "It's a yes for me because it's not his fault that he hasn't played First-Class cricket. He's good enough to be batting in the middle order, especially on a subcontinent tour."

Maxwell's relatively limited appearances in the Sheffield Shield, with just one outing since October 2019, have raised questions about his readiness for Test cricket. While he has participated in the County Championship, representing Warwickshire, Ponting and others argue that sustained success in domestic First-Class competitions is crucial for a return to the Australian Test side.
(With inputs from PTI)