Ricky Ponting was a picture of composure, dignity and passion when he announced his retirement earlier this week. The desire was still there—to win and do well for his country—but he felt, like many of his critics, that he wasn’t contributing enough towards the team’s cause, he wasn’t churning out the runs necessary, and his recent performances were not good enough to warrant a place in the team. Ponting’s teammates would argue his case—they would say he was contributing in so many ways to the team, that he is such a good mentor to the youngsters, and that he has much more left in him. The man who mattered most, Ricky himself, would not buy it. He acknowledged the difficulties he had faced over the past year or so and thanked the selectors and his teammates for their unconditional support. There was nothing dramatic about Ponting’s announcement. There were no tears, he didn’t choke up, and neither did he reflect on his career, for Ponting knows there is a more pressing mat