Run-machine Ponting doubtful

ST JOHN’S, Antigua:  Ricky Ponting could miss the fourth Cable & Wireless Test between Australia and West Indies starting at the Antigua Recreation Ground because of a viral infection.

Ponting, who scored centuries in each of the first three Tests, missed most of the final day’s play in last week’s third Test at Bridgetown for the same reason. “If the match began on Thursday, he wouldn’t be able to play,” Australia’s captain Steve Waugh told reporters. Ponting scored 117 and 42 not out in the first Test, 206 and 45 in the second and 113 in the third Test. Australia are 3-0 up in the series and have a chance to become the first team to achieve a whitewash in the Caribbean if they win the final Test starting in Antigua today.