Gilchrist delighted with 'old pal' Ponting deciding on time of retirement

 Former Australia wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist has said Ricky Ponting made the right call to deal with his cricket mortality in Adelaide, and added that he is happy that his old pal got a chance to decide on his retirement date.

"I am really thrilled for him that he has been able to make a decision regardless of what people think, whether it is too late or premature, his is the only mind that needed to be satisfied," News.com.au quoted Gilchrist, as saying.

Gilchrist hopes uncharitable perceptions of Ponting will melt as the former Test skipper's tough exterior did in an emotionally charged retirement announcement in Perth.

Gilchrist had only seen Ponting let down his guard once, highlighting what the game and the moment meant to the boy from Mowbray.

"It is a bit of shock. It is not his default setting to head towards the emotions, let me tell you," Gilchrist said

"I have cried in front of him a lot. I love the bloke and he deserves every credit that comes his way," he added.

Crowds in England and the sub-continent have given Ponting a hard time as Australia's dominance waned in recent years, while Gilchrist uncomfortably watched Ponting come under fire at home in the wake of a 3-1 Ashes loss to England.

"Hopefully it will be a really good tribute to him over the next few days. In recent times there seemed to be bit of a public perception that Ricky was a bit disgruntled, sour, but I hope he will be remembered for the entertainment and commitment he provided to the team," Gilchrist said.