Ricky Ponting to undergo foot surgery in Melbourne

Australian one-day international captain Ricky Ponting will enter hospital in Melbourne today (Monday 24 June) to undergo surgery on his left foot.

Ponting's operation at The Avenue Hospital in Windsor will assist the healing of a stress fracture that caused him increased discomfort during TOWER Super Challenge II against Pakistan.

The surgery will see a pin inserted into Ponting's metatarsal bone to allow the fracture to heal.

Ponting's foot problem was first noticed by team medical staff during the 2001-02 VB Series. Since that time, the Tasmanian has received on-going treatment.

Ponting said that despite the surgery, he expected to be fit for Australia's next series against Pakistan.

"The soreness in my foot has been there for some time and I have been receiving constant treatment from the team's medical staff," he said.

"Although the injury hasn't hampered my mobility, I felt that with a break between series, the time is right to get the problem fixed properly.

"We have a tough schedule ahead, and by getting the injury seen to now, I am confident that I will be fully fit as we approach the Pakistan series, the summer's Ashes series and the World Cup," he said.

Ponting will be placed on a graduated rehabilitation program overseen by Australian physiotherapist Errol Alcott.

The surgery will be carried out by leading Melbourne surgeon Mr David Young.