Ponting given key role for Bradman anniversary

The centenary of Don Bradman's birth is on August 27 © Getty Images Enlarge

Ricky Ponting will become the first current player to deliver the Bradman Oration when the centenary of Don Bradman's birth is marked in Sydney on August 27. The dinner will celebrate Bradman's contribution to Australian society and Ponting, who is currently on tour in the West Indies, said he was proud to be involved.

"All Australian cricketers grow up learning about the achievements and contribution of Sir Donald, not just his raw statistics, but also the way he influenced and contributed to Australian society throughout his lifetime," Ponting said. "I'm really looking forward to reflecting on how The Don built a platform which must be extended upon by today's cricketers - and indeed society itself. If we don't leave the game, or society, better off for being part of it, we have clearly wasted our opportunity."

James Sutherland, the Cricket Australia chief executive, said the celebration would recognise a great player and a significant administrator. "Sir Donald Bradman is arguably the most famous and celebrated Australian in history and it's important that we acknowledge his legacy in an appropriate manner," Sutherland said. "His records are something that all international cricketers strive to emulate and his influence on Australian cricketers continues to the present day."