'It was Jonny's fault, and he paid for it by losing his wicket' - Ricky Ponting on wicketkeeper-batter's contentious dismissal

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has shared his insights on the contentious dismissal of Jonny Bairstow that became the center of attention during the thrilling final day of the Lord's Test. Ponting firmly says that Australia acted within their rights and were under no obligation to withdraw the appeal, dismissing any notion of compromising the 'Spirit of Cricket' ethos.

Bairstow's time at the crease abruptly ended when Australian wicketkeeper Alex Carey executed a skillful 'stumping' off Cameron Green's delivery. Bairstow strayed from the crease while the ball was still in play, prompting the third umpire to adjudge him out following the visitors' appeal.

Speaking in an interview with Nasser Hussain for the Daily Mail, Ponting acknowledged Australian skipper Pat Cummins' decision not to withdraw the appeal, stating, "I saw it as a test for Pat. There was no need for him to retract the appeal; that was evident. It was Jonny's fault, and he paid for it by losing his wicket. That's it"

In the end, Bairstow's dismissal proved costly for England, as Australia went on to win the Test by a margin of 43 runs. Ben Stokes, the England skipper, valiantly fought on as the last recognized batter, despite falling short of the target.

We were all somewhat astonished by Australia's initial tactics at Edgbaston: Ponting

Reflecting on Australia's tactical approach at Edgbaston, Ponting remarked, "We were all taken aback by how Australia commenced their strategy. It was a bit surprising. Although Australia currently boasts a commanding 2-0 lead in the five-match series, their journey has not been without obstacles, particularly in their encounter with the opening Test of Bazball."

England's aggressive batting resulted in a formidable score of 393-8 in just 78 overs on the first day, leading to criticism of Australia's approach. Offering his perspective on Australia's handling of Bazball throughout the series. "I anticipated Australia's thorough preparation for England's strategies. We were all somewhat astonished by Australia's initial tactics at Edgbaston, but their victory makes it difficult to criticize."

Continuing his analysis, Ponting emphasized, "England's bowling attack requires time to take wickets, as evident in the first two Tests. My primary concern was how the England batting line-up would cope against the skillful and experienced Australian bowlers."

With the third Test at Headingley, Leeds, set to commence on Thursday, July 6, Australia has the opportunity to retain the Ashes and secure their first Test series victory in England since 2001.