Ponting Acknowledges Potential Axing of ‘Next David Warner’ as Pressure Mounts

Ricky Ponting recently praised Jake Fraser-McGurk as Australia’s next David Warner, but now the cricket legend has revealed that the young prospect may be left out of the squad for the team’s Champions Trophy opener on Saturday.

The Australians will kick off their title chase against their old rivals, England, on Saturday night in Lahore.

Both sides are heading into the ODI tournament with concerns over their form. Australia faced heavy defeats in two white-ball matches against Sri Lanka, while England had a dismal tour of India that raised questions about their training techniques.

With most of Australia’s premier bowlers unavailable, the spotlight is now shining on the batting line-up.

At just 22 years old, Fraser-McGurk is regarded as one of the most promising young hitters in Australian cricket.

However, he has struggled to make an impact on the international stage, averaging a disappointing 14.00 across seven one-day internationals, and he has yet to bat beyond the fifth over in this format.

His frequent modes of dismissal have sparked concern and raised doubts about his ability to play shots other than lofted attacks over square.

Ponting has acknowledged that the IPL sensation is having trouble translating his skills to top-level cricket.

“He’s making it increasingly difficult for selectors to choose him,” Ponting told The ICC Review.

“He’s had a tough summer. The talent is undeniable.

There’s a wealth of skill, but we haven’t seen it consistently yet. That’s a significant decision the selectors will need to contemplate now.”

“Jake is the type of player who, when performing at his best, could potentially lead Australia to victory in a tournament. I believe that is what the Australians would be expressing.

The coaches will most likely be conveying the same message to him. It will be interesting to see what they decide to do at the beginning of the tournament.”

Ponting had originally praised Fraser-McGurk back in November, suggesting he might be the successor to retired Australian great David Warner.

“He hasn’t lit up the international stage yet, but he will,” Ponting stated during an interview with Sky Cricket.

“He strikes the ball as cleanly and as powerfully as anyone I’ve ever witnessed.”

If Fraser-McGurk is omitted, it may lead to Steve Smith stepping up the batting order to open alongside Matt Short or Travis Head. This is a move that both Adam Gilchrist and Ponting have advocated.

“Should they consider opening with Steve Smith?” Ponting questioned.

“Given his impressive performances in white-ball cricket when he’s taken the opening role.

Smith could serve as a stabilising force at the top of the order during this Champions Trophy, and with the form he’s currently in, it’s likely he will score significant runs.”

The Champions Trophy remains one of the few international trophies that Australia has yet to claim.

Pakistan, as the defending champions, will also be the host nation for the tournament.