Describing Gautam Gambhir as a "prickly character," Ricky Ponting said that he's "had a bit of history" with India head coach.

Ahead of the Border Gavaskar Trophy, a war of words has erupted between India's coach Gautam Gambhir and former Australian captain Ricky Ponting over

Ricky Ponting was also asked if he would shake hands with Gautam Gambhir before the first ball in Perth, to which the Aussie said: "If he comes my way. Yeah!"

Melbourne: Responding to Gautam Gambhir's jibe at him, former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting on Wednesday said the India head coach was a "prickly character" and insisted that his comments on Virat Kohli should not be construed as a dig on the star batter, who himself would be worried about his prolonged lean patch.

Ricky Ponting has clarified his recent comments about Virat Kohli and claimed that he wasn't trying to take a jibe at the Indian star batter. Ponting also said that Gautam Gambhir was a 'prickly character' and wasn't surprised to see him lash out at his Kohli remark.

Former Australian cricketer Shane Lee has criticized Ricky Ponting for his comments on Virat Kohli's form, suggesting it might backfire by motivating the Indian star ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Shane Lee's comment came hours after Gautam Gambhir hit back at Ricky Ponting over his Virat Kohli statement, questioning his expertise on Indian cricket.

Ricky Ponting has clarified his concerns around the form of Virat Kohli after India’s coach bristled at the Aussie legend’s comments, urging him to focus on Australia.