Former Mumbai Indians captain and coach Ricky Ponting chipped in on the debate for the role of India’s captain. He told the ICC Review show that he reckons his successor at MI is an ideal candidate for the India captaincy. We all know who he’s talking about, don’t we, Paltan?

On how Rohit became captain:

"I was at Mumbai Indians when Rohit Sharma took over the captaincy there," said Ponting. "I was bought in the auction to be their captain and unfortunately, I wasn't playing well enough after the first few games to keep myself in the team, so I had to make room for another international player to come into the side.”

"The owners and the team management wanted to know who I thought would be the appropriate person to take over the leadership at the Mumbai Indians. There were a few names thrown around between owners and the other coaches but it was really clear to me that there was only one guy that can lead the team – he was a young guy and his name happened to be Rohit Sharma.”

On why he backs Rohit:

"I think the proof is in the pudding with what he has done at the Mumbai Indians since that moment on. He has been a very successful leader there and has been when he has led India on a few occasions as well.”

"If I go back to what I said at the start about being on top of your game when you take over a captaincy role, then it is pretty hard to argue after what he has done with his Test cricket in the last 2-3 years. He has played as well as anybody in the world through that period of time, and we know how good he is as a white-ball player.”

Only time will tell if the Hitman is indeed named India’s skipper in all formats. He’s certainly proved his mettle and leadership overall as reiterated by Ricky Ponting.