Ricky Ponting upset by criticism against retiring Michael Clarke

Ricky Ponting has expressed his disappointment over a barrage of criticism levelled against retiring captain Michael Clarke following Australia's Ashes series defeat against England.

Clarke's captaincy was severely called into question by former cricketers, including former coach John Buchanan and ex-teammate Andrew Symonds.

Ponting said that it had been a little disappointing to see some of the public criticisms levelled at Clarke at a time when his enormous contribution to Australian cricket should be acknowledged, News.com.au reported.

Ponting, who preceded Clarke as national captain, also admitted that the 34-year-old loved the game and performed with distinction for Australia as batsman and captain and took the leadership job at a challenging time.

The former captain said that Clarke should look back on his career with enormous satisfaction and pride, as his statistics and longevity are right up there with the very best cricketers of all time.

Clarke will draw curtains on his international career after the final and fifth Ashes Test, which starts from Thursday at the Oval.