Ricky Ponting to decide future in next few days

The 36-year-old, who led Australia to back-to-back World Cup titles in 2003 and 2007, returned home today after the team was knocked out of the current edition in the quarterfinal stage following a loss to India.

The five-wicket defeat only added to the pressure on him that had been building after the Ashes loss to England.

Ponting also drew flak for unsavoury incidents during the event, one of which being accidentally damaging a dressing room TV when he threw his gear in anger after being dismissed.

His poor form for most part of the tournament didn`t help Ponting`s cause either but he managed to silence some criticism of his batting with a fighting hundred against India, albeit for a losing cause.

"The last couple of weeks there`s been a few differing opinions out in the papers and out in the news about me and my future as leading the team," Ponting told reporters on arrival here.

"It`s been nice the last week especially to hear some endorsement from Cricket Australia and the selectors about that position.

"But that`s where the next few days are crucial to me as well. I have to really decide what I think is right for me and the team going forward.

Ponting, Australia`s captain for nine years, was also criticised for not walking despite knowing that he is out in a game against Pakistan.

His temper landed him in trouble again when he angrily threw the ball to the ground after accidentally running into teammate Steve Smith while attempting a catch.

But he maintained that he still has a lot to offer to Australian cricket.

"I still think I`ve got a lot to offer the team as a player and a leader."