Ricky Ponting's last day in office...

It was not a fairytale ending to his epic innings but Ricky Ponting put up a brave face against South Africa in what was his last Test and day out on the cricket field, as a player. A look at his final day in Perth, day 4 of the Test. (AFP PHOTOS)

Ponting raises his bat after being dismissed by Robin Peterson for just 8. No, it was not an epic knock but the standing ovation from the spectators underlined the fact that it was a sparkling career.

Ponting, the second-highest Test run-scorer of all-time, lasted just 23 balls in Australia's second innings as the home side slumped to a 309-run defeat.

The legendary batsman said that while he knew the stage was set for one last mammoth knock, it was not meant to be. He however was later quoted as saying that it still was very special.

"I felt there was one last big push for me, and the day and game was set up for it, but it didn't last long enough."

Ponting is seen here with his wife and two daughters.