Ponting and Langer May Miss Perth Test Commentary Due to IPL Auction

Former Australia cricket captains Ricky Ponting and Justin Langer could miss parts of the upcoming Perth Test against India, starting November 22, due to a clash with their IPL auction commitments. The mega IPL auction is set to take place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on November 24-25, and both Ponting and Langer are involved with IPL teams ahead of the event.
According to reports from The Age, Channel Seven, which has broadcasting rights for the Border-Gavaskar series, may face a commentary gap as Ponting and Langer, who have significant roles with their respective franchises, might be occupied with the auction.
Ponting, the newly appointed head coach of Punjab Kings, and Langer, returning for his second season with Lucknow Super Giants, are expected to attend the auction along with Daniel Vettori, assistant coach of the Australian team and in charge of Sunrisers Hyderabad.
Impact on Commentary and Coaching
This potential absence could leave a gap in the high-profile Test series commentary, particularly as the India-Australia clash is one of the marquee events in world cricket. Additionally, Australia could face a coaching conundrum at the start of the Border-Gavaskar series, with Langer’s role in the IPL likely conflicting with his backroom duties for the Australian team.
Both Ponting and Langer are key figures in Australian cricket, and their presence at the auction is seen as vital for the planning and recruitment of players for their respective IPL teams.