Ricky Ponting has spotted a fragility in England's batting, which may prove costly for the tourists during the Ashes.

The Australia captain continued a week of pointed remarks about England which have emanated from his team's Queensland training camp.

Ponting himself began the talking shop, just before his team set off to prepare for their forthcoming tour of India, when he suggested another 5-0 drubbing may be in the offing for England after their whitewash in Australia four years ago.

All-rounder Shane Watson has since had his say, calling into question the readiness of England's new fast-bowling find Steven Finn for such an arduous and high-profile series.

It was back to the captain again this morning, however - and Ponting duly voiced his opinion that England's batting is vulnerable.

England have made a habit of collapsing in their ongoing npower series at home to Pakistan.

Ponting told Sky Sports: "There are probably a few little cracks starting to open up with England, particularly with the batting side of things."

With the likes of Kevin Pietersen, captain Andrew Strauss and Paul Collingwood all currently averaging under 30 against Pakistan this summer, Ponting has a theory too that Eoin Morgan will play ahead of Ian Bell in the middle order against Australia.

"He's been impressive in a few games against us in one-day cricket," he said of the Irish-born left-hander, who has one Test hundred to his name after five matches so far. "I think they will play him at Bell's expense. There seems to be a bit of a buzz around the country with Morgan.

"I think they liked his attitude more than anything else. I think that's probably something they'd like for a big series."

Ponting notes England have the assistance of Australian David Saker as their bowling coach, but warns advice from beyond the boundary - however expert - has its limitations.

"I know they have an Australian bowling coach with them at the moment," he added.

"But you can have all the coaching you want - it is what you do on the field that wins you matches."

As for his own future, it seems 35-year-old Ponting may remain a significant opponent for England beyond this winter.

"It was probably my most inconsistent 12 months last year, and I have to change that as a number three batter," he admitted.

"I'd like to think (I can play) a lot more. Realistically, (I suppose) I will not do that.

"But I have not even thought about retirement.

"It is all dependent on how well I play. I am enjoying the game as much as I ever have.

"With the challenge I have for the next eight months, I could not ask for anything better."

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