“There probably wouldn’t be anyone else still playing international cricket as a top-order batsman who’s only scored two Test match hundreds in five years.”

When asked about Ponting’s assessment, Gambhir retorted by saying, “What does Ricky Ponting have to do with Indian cricket?”

“He should be talking about Australia. Look, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are still passionate about the game and want to achieve more. They are hungry for success and have done exceptionally well for the country over the years,” Gambhir added.

‘Prickly Gambhir’

Ponting said on Monday that he was not surprised by the nature of the response from the former India opener, adding that his words were misconstrued in the process.

“I said I would be concerned (about Kohli’s form),” Ponting explained on 7NEWS.

“But I think if you ask Virat, I’m sure Virat would be a little bit concerned that he hasn’t been able to make the same amount of hundreds as he has in previous years. In no way was it a dig at him. I actually followed it up by saying he’s played well in Australia and he’ll be keen to bounce back over here.

“So, it’s amazing how little things can get cut up, but he’s a class player and he’s played well in Australia in the past,” Ponting added.

Ponting also added that he has had a “bit of history” with Gambhir whom he has played against and coached during his time at the Delhi Capitals (then Daredevils) in the IPL.

“I was surprised to read the reaction but knowing the coach, Gautam Gambhir … he’s quite a prickly character, so I’m not surprised it was him who said something back,” Ponting said.