The English cricket club Somerset have denied they are in discussions to sign former Australia captain Ricky Ponting amid speculation he could join a county side this season.
Reports have suggested that Ponting could return to Somerset, where he enjoyed a brief stint in 2004, in the second half of the season to push his claims for an Ashes place next summer.
The 37-year-old has found himself out of favour with Australia's one-day international set-up with his Test career only revived following a stellar home series against India in the winter.
Ponting has previously admitted his desire to return to county cricket and while Somerset would not rule out a move, they have not begun talks.
After captaining Tasmania to defeat in the Sheffield Shield final this week Ponting would be without any first-class cricket until Australia's series against South Africa next winter.
