ENGLAND have been on the receiving end more than once, but you can’t argue with Ricky Ponting’s achievements as a cricketer.

He’s been a great captain – statistically Australia’s most successful after 48 Test wins – and a great batsman, up there with Sachin Tendulkar and Brian Lara as one of the best on the planet.

He has averaged more than 50 per innings and while he has sometimes struggled for form during the series against South Africa, he is still capable of getting among the runs, had decided to step down from international cricket.

I think he has acted at the right time, because Ponting is still at the top of his game.

But age catches up with everyone, and it’s right he will be remembered as one of the world’s best rather than a player who went on too long.

Here’s to a happy retirement!