Ponting dropped from Australia one-day team

Ricky Ponting was dropped from the Australia team because of poor form on Monday with selectors indicating a possible end to the career of the second most prolific batsmen of all time in one-day internationals.
   
The 37-year-old, who captained Australia until last year's World Cup and took over as temporary skipper for the last two one-dayers in the absence of the injured Michael Clarke, made just 18 runs in five games in the Tri-series against India and Sri Lanka. 
 
"Ricky Ponting has been dropped from the Tri-series," chief selector John Inverarity said. "The door is never closed but it's a strong indication that we have the 2015 World Cup firmly in mind.
   
"I spoke to Ricky this morning and he was disapppointed but he took it on the chin. He's a gem of a man."
 
Inverarity said Ponting would take time to decide on his future and may opt to retire from one-dayers. He added that he hoped Ponting would remain available for test cricket. 

All-rounder Shane Watson, sidelined for three months by injury, returned to the 13-man squad for the one-dayers against Sri Lanka in Hobart on Friday and India in Sydney on Sunday. 
 
Team - Michael Clarke, Shane Watson, Dan Christian, Xavier Doherty, Peter Forrest, Ryan Harris, Ben Hilfenhaus, David Hussey, Michael Hussey, Brett Lee, Clint McKay, Matthew Wade, David Warner.