Ponting becomes world's highest century maker as captain

Bangalore, Oct 9 (UNI) Australian captain Ricky Ponting today created a world record by becoming the highest century maker as skipper when he completed his 17th ton, a magnificient knock that lifted his side to a strong position after it had lost opener Mathew Heyden in the first over.

Ponting eclipsed the old mark that also stood in the names of former Australian captains -- Alan Border and Steve Waugh. He also equaled an Australian record of most centuries on foreign soil.He equalled Waugh's record of 17 centuries outside Australia.

The right-hander also became the second highest run getter against India when he scored 47 runs to go past Border's aggregate of 1567. Now he is the second most run getter against India behind team mate Matthew Hayden who, however, could not add to his total of 1654 runs against India.

Ponting also equaled Borders 35 innings appearances against India today. Today's outing was the 200th innings against all countries and 36th against India by the Aussie captain. He also became the fourth Australian batsman to play 200 Test innings today. The other three are Border (265), Steve Waugh (260) and Mark Waugh (209).

The first Test which began here is the 20th Test appearance for Ponting against India. This equals the record standing in the name of Border who had also played 20 Tests against India.

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