The Times of India

EXCLUSIVE| Ponting hails Iyers rise to India captaincy: 'Recognition of hard work':

I've been the one endorsing him for the role and telling the Indian selectors that if they give him a chance, I don't think they'll be disappointed. As I said, it's a great achievement. It's terrific recognition for the hard work he has put in over a long period of time, and I'm sure he'll do a great job as captain of India, Ponting added.