Ricky Ponting has signaled he will walk away from cricket for the final time later in October.
After stepping down from International level in December last year, Ponting has continued his involvement with the game around the world, having success with Tasmania, the Mumbai Indians and Surrey.
However, after his final stint in the Indian Premier League, Ponting said it will be the right time to begin a new chapter in his life.
“While I’m enjoying my cricket as much as ever, it just feels like the right time to finish playing,” Ponting said.
“My body and mind are in great shape and I know I’m going to really enjoy these last few months before the next stage of life begins.”
After stepping down from the highest level of cricket, Ponting’s skill has remained as he helped his state Tasmania to the Sheffield Shield title, one of the few trophies in world cricket he had not won.
Much of the blame had been down to his commitments to the Australian team, leaving him little time to play for his state.
However, getting the chance to win with Tasmania will rate highly for the man of the moment.
“To win the Sheffield Shield with Tasmania in my last game in Australia played at Blundstone Arena, will forever be a memory close to my heart. It’s one of a lifetime of memories that will become even more special to me in retirement,” he said.
“I’m so grateful for the opportunities that the game of cricket has given to me. I’ve played with so many outstanding people at all levels of cricket with lifelong friendships made.”
Ponting will play with Surrey until the end of July before fulfilling a commitment to the Antigua Hawksbills in the inaugural Carribbean Premier League before finishing up in the IPL.
The classy right-handed batsman said he release his autobiography later in the year and will continue work with his foundation.
Ponting played 168 Tests and 375 one-day internationals for his country, averaging 51.85 and 42.03 with the bat respectively.