Ponting embarrassed by painful Roach blow

Australia’s Captain, Ricky Ponting said he was embarrassed at having to abandon his innings after being struck a painful blow by West Indies speedster, Kemar Roach on Wednesday’s opening day of the third Test at Perth.



The veteran top order batsman was forced to retire hurt for the first time in his career and said he took the decision to ensure he did not hamper his side’s progress at 175 for 1.



Scans showed no major damage, but Ponting, unbeaten on 23, did not return to complete his innings as Australia piled up 520 for 7 declared.



The right-hander, renowned as a fine player of pace bowling, was given a torrid working over by Roach in the first over he faced.



He was hit in the ribs from a short ball by Roach and though he carried on, the pain proved too much in the end.