Ricky Ponting has joined the ownership group of Australia Champions ahead of the third season of the World Championship of Legends (WCL), adding one of Australian cricket’s most prominent figures to the franchise as the competition enters a new phase of expansion.
Ponting joins existing owner Puneet Singh, with the development announced at an Australia Champions event in Melbourne. The franchise also confirmed former Australia opener David Warner as its captain for WCL Season 3, bringing together two of the country’s most recognisable cricket figures across its ownership and playing leadership.
Ponting, who captained Australia during one of the most successful eras in international cricket, said the franchise had an opportunity to build something special for Australian fans alongside Singh and Warner.
Ricky Ponting, Owner, Australia Champions, said, “I’m excited to be part of Australia Champions and the World Championship of Legends. With Puneet and the team, and David leading from the front, we have a great opportunity to build something special for Australian cricket fans.”
Puneet Singh, Owner, Australia Champions, added, “This is a very exciting new chapter for Australia Champions. Having Ricky join us, and David take on the captaincy gives us incredible experience, leadership and firepower. We’re ready to build something truly special.”
Harshit Tomar, Founder & CEO, World Championship of Legends, continued, “Australia Champions entering this new era with Ricky, Puneet and David is a huge moment for WCL. Season 3 is shaping up to be our biggest yet, and this is just the beginning.”
The development comes as the WCL expands its international footprint. Season 3 will be staged in the United Arab Emirates from October 3 to 18, following the first two editions in the United Kingdom. Bangladesh Champions has also been added to the competition, further broadening its team base.
For Australia Champions, Ponting’s move into ownership strengthens the franchise’s connection with Australian cricket’s legacy while adding significant brand credibility to its commercial proposition. The team has previously featured former internationals including Brett Lee, Aaron Finch, Shaun Marsh, Tim Paine, Ben Cutting and Nathan Coulter-Nile.
Ponting’s transition from Australian cricket icon to franchise owner also reflects the evolving business model of former-player-led sports properties, as the WCL looks to convert the popularity of retired stars into a broader global cricket-entertainment proposition.
