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Ponting retained for India

Image: Ponting: Set for return against India

Ricky Ponting will remain in Australia's squad for the tour of India, despite being ruled out of the ICC World Twenty20.

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Australia captain will stay with ODI squad, while Watson is doubtful

Ricky Ponting will remain in Australia's squad for the tour of India, despite being ruled out of the ICC World Twenty20. The two-time ICC Player of the Year missed Australia's 10-wicket mauling of Sri Lanka on Thursday, with a hamstring injury. Australian medical staff have since confirmed Ponting will not feature in Saturday's semi-final or the final should Australia make it. But he will be retained for the seven-match one-day series against India, which starts on 29th September.

Reinforcement

New South Wales star Brad Haddin has come into the squad as cover, but chairman of selectors Andrew Hilditch is confident the captain will play some part. "Ricky is making excellent progress following his hamstring strain in the game against Pakistan," Hilditch said. "Although Ricky's injury is very disappointing it gives us an opportunity to recognise the outstanding performances of Brad Haddin domestically and in his limited opportunities for Australia in the past 12 months."
Watson
Australia's injury woes are starting to mount though, with all-rounder Shane Watson limping out of the victory over Sri Lanka, having only just returned to the side. Hamstring problems have continued to blight the Queenslander's career, and he is now a real doubt for the crucial last four clash. "Shane felt some soreness in the left hamstring during the game and we will continue to assess this over the next 48 hours before any decision is made regarding his availability,"physiotherapist Alex Kountouris confirmed. South Africa and India play live on Sky Sports 1 from 5pm on Thursday meanwhilw, to determine which team Australia will face in Saturday's semi.