Ponting: Labuschagne, Smith could overtake Root in ICC Test rankings
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Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting believes Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith can overtake England's Joe Root as the No.1 Test batter if they perform consistently.
Root was recently overtook Labuschagne as the top-ranked Test batter, but there are several batters on the line to surpass the former England captain.
“Yeah, potentially (both Labuschagne and Smith could overtake Root this summer)," Ponting said on The ICC Review on Friday.
“Both of those guys (Labuschagne and Smith) have outstanding records in Australia. I think looking back at last week, it was Marnus’ first hundred (against Sri Lanka) outside Australia. In saying that, it’s been in Australia in the last couple of years where Smith has had most troubles,"
Ponting lauded Root for his consistency with the bat and termed his 'class is permanent'.
“Joe Root has been exactly the opposite. Every time he has gone out to bat in the last 18 months or two years, he’s made a hundred, particularly against India. His record against India has been absolutely outstanding. One thing I know is his class is permanent," added Ponting.
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