Ricky Ponting feels Finch must open the batting for Australia

Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting wants debutant Aaron Finch to open the batting in the forthcoming Test series against Pakistan. Without the presence of regular openers in David Warner and Cameron Bancroft, the Aussie legend believes Finch can accompany young Matt Renshaw at the top of the batting order.

Warner and Bancroft were banned for their contributions in the infamous ‘Sandpaper Gate’ incident that took place between Australia and South Africa in the third test, where the latter was found tampering the ball. This led to the selection of many new faces in the national test squad, including Finch.

Although the Victorian is a senior member of the limited overs teams, he is yet to represent his country in the longest format of the game. However, his experience could come in handy for the youngsters.

Ponting feels Finch has been consistent across all formats in recent years and thus, deserves a chance. Speaking to cricket.com.au, he said, 'Although his (Finch’s) red-ball numbers aren’t outstanding, he has been in really good form in other formats of the game all around the world for the last few years.'

'The conditions in that part of the world in the UAE, I don't think the new ball should do too much. It will probably be more like starting an innings against the white ball, which Finchy is very very good at,' he added.

Punter also insisted that Peter Siddle, who is making a comeback for Australia, should open the bowling with Mitchell Starc. Siddle has always been used by the Aussies with the older ball, but Ponting has different suggestions.

“One thing you know about Siddle is that he’s not going to give too many easy runs away, With guys like Mitch Starc and Mitchell Marsh, those guys are probably more likely to leak runs on a consistent basis as they are wicket taking bowlers.' adding, 'If you’ve got Siddle operating with Nathan Lyon you can guarantee that things will dry up pretty quickly,' he continued.

The much-awaited two-match test series is scheduled to commence on 7 October. The Australian Cricket Board is yet to reveal Finch’s batting position.