Ponting's return prompts captaincy confusion

SYDNEY - Steve Waugh has questioned recalling Ricky Ponting as captain of the Australian one-day team in the absence of the injured Michael Clarke, reflecting widespread confusion in the country about the role of the vice-captain.

Ponting, who stood down as Test and one-day captain after the World Cup last year, will lead Australia in its one-day triangular series match against Sri Lanka on Friday after his successor Clarke suffered a mild hamstring strain.

Opening batsman David Warner was vice-captain of the side but chief selector John Inverarity said they were keen not to put much pressure on the 25-year-old, while there was no mention at all of Test vice-captain Brad Haddin.