Ponting steps down as Tasmania captain

Ricky Ponting has quit the Tasmania captaincy and will play in the state's FR Cup match agaisnt New South Wales on Sunday under the leadership of Daniel Marsh. Ponting has nominally been in charge of the Tigers since 2001-02 but in the past few years his state appearances have been rare due to international commitments.

The vice-captain, Marsh, has been the de facto leader for the state in recent seasons and guided Tasmania to their first Pura Cup title last summer. Ponting has only played two Pura Cup games in five seasons and although he has made it home for a few more one-day outings, he said it would be better for the ongoing development of the side to have continuity of leadership.

"To captain Tasmania is a great honour and something I'll always cherish," Ponting said. "Naturally I'll continue to play with Tasmania and assist the leadership group as much as possible, however I feel that Dan Marsh has cemented his role as Tassie's captain and I believe this is the right moment for Dan to lead the team on a permanent basis."

Marsh said he was delighted to step into the role in a full-time capacity. "Ricky has been very supportive of the Tigers over the years and it is always very exciting for the whole squad when he is available to play for us which he will continue to do when possible," Marsh said.

Australia's unusually quiet December - they do not play another Test until Boxing Day - might have allowed Ponting to captain Tasmania in two one-day games and a Pura Cup match. However, the Tasmanian Cricket Association chief executive David Johnston said Ponting was "adamant" that Marsh take over.