James Anderson’s Ashes XI Sparks Outrage Over Ricky Ponting Blunder

Former England fast-bowler James Anderson recently revealed what he considers his “all-time Ashes XI,” combining legends from both sides of the storied series. The announcement, however, drew significant backlash — not least because of one very unusual decision: giving the wicket-keeping gloves to former Australian captain Ricky Ponting.

Despite Ponting’s illustrious batting and fielding career, he was never a professional wicket-keeper in international cricket. 

Anderson’s full XI included Don Bradman, Alastair Cook, Ponting (as keeper), Joe Root, Kevin Pietersen, Ian Botham, Ben Stokes (captain), and bowlers like Shane Warne, Bob Willis, Glenn McGrath and Stuart Broad. 

Fan Backlash: “Who’s Keeping Wicket?”

As soon as the list was shared on social media, fans reacted — and not kindly. Many were bemused. One post simply asked: “Who is keeping wicket?” followed by a laughing emoji. Another sarcastically commented that Ponting was “one of the greatest fielders,” implying that turning him into a keeper was absurd. 

Critics also questioned Anderson’s other picks. For example, placing Don Bradman as an opener — when in reality, Bradman batted most of his career at number three — struck many as historically inaccurate. 

Meanwhile, the original video in which Anderson announced his team has reportedly been removed by the broadcaster. That deletion suggests even those behind the broadcast recognized how controversial the selections had become. 

Why It Mattered — And What It Says About “All-Time” Picks

The uproar over Anderson’s choices underlines a broader point: compiling an all-time “best XI” is always going to be subjective, but some choices clearly defy convention or historical record. Assigning wicket-keeping duties to a player who never performed that role professionally, or reassigning batting spots to legends with vastly different career positions, challenges the very logic of selecting an all-time “best XI.”

Moreover, the controversy shows how passionate fans are about accuracy and respect for players’ true careers. As the conversation around Anderson’s list picked up steam, many questioned whether such picks are meant as serious assessments — or as provocative takes meant to stir discussion.

In the end, Anderson’s Ashes XI became less a tribute to greatness than a talking point, with fans more focused on what he got wrong than whom he got right.