Their appetite for runs is no doubt legendary - both players are unique in their own style and each had a separate rise to the top of the success ladder. Sachin was of course, the child superstar who burst upon the international scene at the tender age of 16 and would then go on to become India's most successful batsman. Ponting, on the other hand did not have the smoothest of runs early on as his attitude was questioned. But he did overcome his challenges to become Australia's most dangerous player at the top of the order.
Debates have been made as to who is the better player and critics will analyse endlessly between the two. However, now both of them have reached the point in their careers where the dreaded question is raised - Is it time to hang up the boots?
If the recent performances are anything to go by then that question is more rhetorical than anything else. Sachin has not scored a century in Tests since January last year while Ponting has been struggling in the recent series against South Africa. However the Aussie did find lost form against the Indians earlier this year, smashing two centuries to show he did have it in him still.
Ponting quit the fifty over format in February and he is already unsure if he will be a certainty for the Ashes next year. Sachin, on the other hand, said that he would take a decision on his future after the Test series against England.
While the former is possibly giving hints of calling it quits, the latter is not giving anything away. Their reactions may be different but one cannot help but notice that note of acceptance in their tones. The acceptance that time has passed very quickly. Gone are the days when they were at their peak and could literally destroy bowling attacks at will when given the chance. Both had different styles of play. Sachin more orthodox in his shots while Ponting would not bat the way the cricket book would dictate. However there is no denying the fact that when set, either of them had the capability to blast the opposition into submission.
But this is not a comparison of their successes and failures. Nor is it an attempt to conclude who was the better player. It is highlighting the fact that these two greats, giants of the game and legends in their own right, are now facing the moment of truth. The moment when they look at themselves in the mirror to ask 'Do I still have it in me?'
While they are unsure of the answer, the public shall be clueless but should they find what they are looking for then the cricket loving public will love them more for it. Great sportsmen have always maintained that it's better to step down when people ask why rather than why not. So these two greats face such a test before them. Should they abdicate for the next generation or do they have that extra bit of energy left to go on. Knowing what the game means to Sachin and Ponting, they will be sincere in their answer.
In the last five years Sachin has averaged almost 54 in Tests compared to Ponting's 41. But all that is in the past. Now is the time for reckoning as these two heroes have the option to leave with dignity or leave when they feel their job is done. Maybe to them, both are the same and they are the best judge.
So after an intense rivalry that has lasted nearly two decades resulting in heated battles on the field and mutual admiration off it, Sachin Tendulkar and Ricky Ponting are on the same boat. The boat of uncertainty in which the future is not clear. They face the same dilemma if it is indeed one at all. Or is it clear to both of them what they have to do?
As of now and till either one or both of them call it the day, the Punter and the Master share the same space for they are two peas in the same pod.
Here is a list of how they have fared in Tests since 2008 till date:
In 2008:
Sachin: Played 13 Tests, scored 1063, averaged 48.31, 4 tons and 3 fifties
Ricky: Played 14 Tests, scored 1182, averaged 47.28, 4 tons and 5 fifties
In 2009:
Sachin: Played 6 Tests, scored 541, averaged 67.62, 2 tons and 3 fifties
Ricky: Played 13 Tests, scored 853, averaged 38.77, 1 tons and 7 fifties
In 2010:
Sachin: Played 14 Tests, scored 1562, averaged 78.10, 7 tons and 5 fifties
Ricky: Played 12 Tests, scored 813, averaged 36.25, 1 tons and 6 fifties
In 2011:
Sachin: Played 9 Tests, scored 756, averaged 47.25, 1 ton and 5 fifties
Ricky: Played 7 Tests, scored 415, averaged 31.92, no tons and 4 fifties
In 2012:
Sachin: Played 7 Tests, scored 274, averaged 22.83, no tons and 1 fifty
Ricky: Played 8 Tests, scored 588, averaged 49, 2 tons and 2 fifties