Ponting almost unbackable

When the bookies work out their markets for an individual batsman before the start of a five-match series, they usually set the top man at around 400-420.

Such was the reputation of Ricky Ponting, though, that the Australia captain was installed as something like 450-470 with the spread firms, but Ponting is already on course for an enormous run total.

The Tasmanian has already managed 447 from two matches and it goes without saying that he is in superb nick. As a result, he is now 1/10 (1.10) favourite with bet365 to finish on top, something he ought to do since he is already more than 200 runs clear of the next man, Michael Hussey.

Hussey himself is 15/2 (8.50) after two impressive Tests, while Justin Langer, who failed twice in Adelaide, is 16/1 (17.00). Michael Clarke, whose century has probably secured his place in the side for the next Test ahead of Damien Martyn, is 22/1 (23.00) while beyond them, Matthew Hayden is 33/1 (34.00).