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Clarke brought to tears by Ponting's retirement

Clarke brought to tears by Ponting's retirement

Australian captain Michael Clarke has choked up when asked about Ricky Ponting's retirement from Test cricket.

Just minutes after Ponting confirmed the third Test against South Africa would be his last, Clarke faced the media to announce Australia's final 12-man squad for the match.

In paying tribute to his former skipper, an emotional Clarke choked up and after a long pause said "That'll do me for today, sorry".

"I didn't have a feeling it was coming," Clarke said before his emotions got the better of him.

"Ricky spoke to me after Adelaide and obviously made his decision over the last few days.

"The boys (team) are obviously hurting right now. He's been an amazing player for a long time.

"It's tough on the boys, but this makes this game even more special."

Later, Clarke told ABC Grandstand: "He's an amazing player. He was an amazing captain, is a great friend and it's going to be tough to go into a Test match without him being there.

"What a player he's been. He's been a great ambassador for the sport - not just for Australia but around the world.

"I'd love nothing more than to win this Test match, get back to being number one and for Ricky to get a big hundred. What a way for him to go out."