Ponting hits century in first-class farewell - Ricky Ponting admitted he was

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Ricky Ponting admitted he was relieved to bow out in style as the former Australia captain hit 169 not out for Surrey in his final first-class innings against Nottinghamshire on Thursday.

In This Pic : Ricky Ponting

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Ponting had moved from his overnight 41 to 108 by lunch on the final day of the County Championship First Division match at the Oval and he remained unbeaten throughout his seven-hour, 319-ball innings, which included 18 fours, to help Surrey rescue a draw.

In This Pic : Ricky Ponting

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The 38-year-old, who retired from international cricket in December 2012 with a Test average of 51.85, had reached the landmark of 24,000 first-class runs at the start of his second innings on Wednesday.

In This Pic : Ricky Ponting

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And, after being dismissed for just 29 in the first innings, Ponting made the most of his final chance, reaching three figures by charging down the pitch to spinner Samit Patel and smashing a four.

In This Pic : Ricky Ponting

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That took Ponting past Sunil Gavaskar, Sachin Tendulkar and Mark Waugh in the all-time list of first-class hundred makers to join current Australia coach Darren Lehmann on 82.

In This Pic : Ricky Ponting

Pic Courtesy : Getty Images