Melbourne, Aug 11 (Reporter) In a significant development for the global cricket community, legendary Australian cricketer Ricky Ponting has expressed his enthusiasm about the inclusion of cricket in the Olympic Games. Speaking candidly about the sport’s long-awaited return to the prestigious event, Ponting highlighted the immense potential for growth and exposure that cricket stands to gain. "It can only be a positive thing for our game," Ponting stated. "I've sat on various committees over the last 15 or 20 years, and it's always been on the top of almost every agenda – how do we get the game back into the Olympics? And finally, it's there." Ponting's optimism is well-founded, especially considering the Olympic Games' global reach. He noted that the event could serve as a pivotal moment for cricket, particularly in markets like the United States, where Major League Cricket (MLC) is gaining traction. "Once again, in the US by that stage, hopefully, with MLC, another four years down the track hopefully growing. Who knows, there might even be more teams in the MLC by then. I think it also gives cricket a chance to break into the grassroots level in the US," Ponting remarked. The broader implications of cricket's Olympic debut extend far beyond the host nation, as Ponting emphasized the global audience the Games attract. "The Olympic Games being viewed by so many people all around the world, it just opens up completely different audiences to our game that's seemingly growing on a daily basis anyway. It can only be a real positive thing for the game." However, Ponting acknowledged the challenges ahead, particularly regarding the infrastructure, facilities, and qualification process. With only six or seven teams expected to compete, the stakes will be high for nations aspiring to participate. "Qualification is going to be at a premium, how you actually qualify to get into the Olympic Games," he said. As for his personal involvement, Ponting hinted at a potential role in the Australian team’s Olympic journey. Reflecting on his experience at the Commonwealth Games, he shared, "I was lucky enough to play in the Commonwealth Games and just to be around the athletes in the villages and stuff was quite a surreal environment to be in for a cricketer." When asked about the possibility of mentoring or coaching an Olympic cricket team, Ponting remained open to the idea. "It'd be a pretty nice job, I reckon, to be a mentor around a cricket team in the Olympic Games, to hang out," he mused. "It'd be special to be a part of, so who knows? We'll keep my fingers crossed and see what happens." As the cricketing world eagerly anticipates the sport's Olympic return, Ponting's insights underscore the excitement and opportunities that lie ahead. With cricket set to make its mark on the global stage, the future of the game looks brighter than ever...////...