Former captain Ricky Ponting will lead the Australian cricket team in Friday's ODI tri-series match against Sri Lanka in the absence of an injured Michael Clarke, while veteran pacer Brett Lee has made an earlier than expected return to the 14-member squad announced today.

Ponting, who stepped down as captain last year, was named to lead the side as Clarke picked up a hamstring strain during Sunday's match against India and his out of form regular deputy Brad Haddin is not even in the squad.

David Warner has been named vice-captain by the National Selection Panel (NSP) due to the continuing injury-forced absence of all-rounder Shane Watson.

"After careful consideration the NSP has asked Ricky Ponting if he would captain the Australian ODI team in Michael Clarke's absence. David Warner displays considerable leadership potential, but the NSP is of the view that he should not, at this moment, have the added responsibility of captaincy thrust on him," Cricket Australia said in a statement.