The 38-year-old retired from international cricket in December and had been expected to make the current domestic season his last, but said he was in good touch and wanted to carry on.u00a0

“I’ve told Tasmanian cricket this week that I’m really keen to play on again next year,” said Ponting, who was last week named Sheffield Shield player of the year. “But in the same breath, I’ve also told them not to contract me. I don't want to take a contract spot and pull out at the last minute. If I get through the (Australian) winter really well and I’m still keen to play again next year, then I’ll obviously go round again.”