Ricky fancies an Aussie win

– Australia can retain their World Cup title in England this year with Steve Smith and David Warner back in the fray, newly-appointed assistant coach Ricky Ponting said yesterday.

His upbeat assessment comes despite the misfiring team losing its two most recent ODI series at home, to India and South Africa.

“Absolutely,” said Ponting when asked in Melbourne if Australia could win the World Cup.

“India and England are probably the two standout teams right now but if you add Warner and Smith, I think that team looks as strong as anyone.

“Conditions in England will suit our style of play,” added Ponting, who was appointed on Friday as assistant to coach Justin Langer for the World Cup, focusing on the batting group.

The former national captain is hugely experienced in the oneday game, playing at five World Cups and winning at three.

“I think I have a pretty good grasp on what it takes for tournaments like that,” he said.

“Hopefully I can have an impact right from the start. The feedback from the boys has been positive.”

Ponting, a close ally of Langer, takes up his post after Australia’s upcoming one-day tours against India and Pakistan. – AFP