Ricky Ponting Calls Sachin Tendulkar Technically Best Batter He Has Ever Seen

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has hailed Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar as the "technically best batter" he has ever seen or played with or against. As Tendulkar celebrated his 50th birthday, Ponting praised the right-hander's ability to counter any bowling plan.

Ponting recounted Tendulkar's standout knock of 241 against Australia in the drawn Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground in 2004, adding that the Indian's straight drive was his most potent shot. He also highlighted Tendulkar's trademark of seeing the full face of the bat coming straight back down the line of the ball and straight back past the bowler.

When asked to compare between Tendulkar and current Indian captain Virat Kohli, Ponting felt it was tough to compare batters of different eras. He noted the changes in rules around 50-over cricket and the advancements in bat technology that make it easier to bat now than ever before.

Ponting concluded by saying that he prefers to judge players based on their longevity in the game and that Tendulkar's ability to maintain a high level of excellence for over 20 years is a testament to his skill and physicality. He believes that once Kohli finishes his cricketing career, a fair comparison between the two players can be made.