As a batsman, there were very few players who could match the level at which Ricky Ponting performed during his peak. What stood about him, however, was his astute leadership ability and headstrong nature.

The latter reasons are now paying off as a coach for Punter as former England batsman, Mark Butcher, has heaped praise on his former rival.

Speaking to Sky Sports about Jason Roy’s match-winning innings against the Mumbai Indians, Butcher was of the opinion that Roy’s confidence in finishing the game off might have Ponting to thank for.

"It was such a class innings. Particularly because he was there at the very end, something he has been criticised for not doing before.

"He played brilliantly, absolutely superbly. The way he closed the game out, the maturity he showed going through the gears, were all great signs.

"It looks like Ponting has had a real influence on him. The rocket he gave him during the first team timeout was extraordinary to see, for a guy playing as well as he was. It was almost like he'd played awfully, the way Ricky was on him."’

The duo had played together as team-mates for Surrey and might have used the past relationship for the betterment of the Englishman.

"Quite often, with these different coaches around the world, there isn't that relationship – the coaches and the players are always trying to feel each other out, find out what makes them tick," he said.

"Ponting, in this case, looks to have an idea on how to get the best out of Roy, because he's played with him at Surrey, knows his makeup – he stays on top of him, he doesn't allow him to think too much for himself.

"He's in there, saying, 'Come on, you're a fantastic player, but I'm not going to let you slip here. I'm going to stay in your head and make sure you're focused on the job. Don't you give this away now'.