Ponting to lead Australia in Clarke's absence

SYDNEY: Former skipper Ricky Ponting will lead Australia in the place of injured Michael Clarke for Australia's tri one-day series international against Sri Lanka in Sydney, officials said on Tuesday.

Ponting, who was replaced as Australia captain last year, was named as the stand-in skipper for Friday's match after Clarke injured a hamstring in the team's four-wicket loss to India in Adelaide last Sunday.

Team officials said they hoped that Clarke would recover from his low-grade hamstring strain in time for Sunday's ODI against India in Brisbane.

"After careful consideration the selection panel has asked Ricky Ponting if he would captain the Australian ODI team in Michael Clarke's absence," chief selector John Inverarity said.

"The panel appreciates the fact that Ricky is prepared to accept this responsibility in the wider interests of the team."

Paceman Brett Lee and senior batsman Mike Hussey return to the squad with fast bowler Ryan Harris rested, but there was no place for Test wicketkeeper Brad Haddin, who has yet to play in the tri ODI series.

Selectors also named opening batsman David Warner as team vice-captain in the continuing absence of Shane Watson, who will try to prove his fitness in a Sheffield Shield match this weekend. (AFP)