(REUTERS) – Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has been appointed head coach of Indian Premier League side Mumbai Indians, the club announced yesterday.The 39-year-old, who retired from international cricket in 2012, previously captained Mumbai in a short spell with the team in 2013 and takes over from John Wright ahead of the new season, which starts in April next year.

“We are delighted to have Ricky back with us and look forward to his contribution based on his experience and expertise,” former India spin bowler Anil Kumble, who is part of the Mumbai Owners Group, said in a statement on the club’s website (www.mumbaiindians.com).
Ponting, one of international cricket’s most successful captains with 48 victories in 77 Tests, worked as an adviser to Mumbai as they finished fourth last season but this will be his first head coaching role.