Ricky Ponting admitted he was relieved to bow out in style as the former Australia captain hit 169 not out for Surrey in his final first-class innings against Nottinghamshire on Thursday.

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Ponting hits century in first-class farewell

Ricky Ponting admitted he was relieved to bow out in style as the former Australia captain hit 169 not out for Surrey in his final first-class innings against Nottinghamshire on Thursday. (Getty Images)

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Ponting had moved from his overnight 41 to 108 by lunch on the final day of the County Championship First Division match at the Oval and he remained unbeaten throughout his seven-hour, 319-ball innings, which included 18 fours, to help Surrey rescue a draw. (Getty Images)

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The 38-year-old, who retired from international cricket in December 2012 with a Test average of 51.85, had reached the landmark of 24,000 first-class runs at the start of his second innings on Wednesday. (Getty Images)

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And, after being dismissed for just 29 in the first innings, Ponting made the most of his final chance, reaching three figures by charging down the pitch to spinner Samit Patel and smashing a four. (Getty Images)

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That took Ponting past Sunil Gavaskar, Sachin Tendulkar and Mark Waugh in the all-time list of first-class hundred makers to join current Australia coach Darren Lehmann on 82. (Getty Images)

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It was a fitting finale for Ponting and he conceded it would have been an anti-climax to finish his legendary career, which included 168 Tests and 375 one-day international appearances, with a low score. (Getty Images)

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"If I'd have failed in this innings then it would have been a really disappointing way to finish," he said. "To tell you the truth I haven't really thought about this being it. I've been pretty zoned in and focused on what I've had to do for Surrey." (Getty Images)

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Now Ponting will play Twenty20 with Surrey and then head for the Caribbean Premier League before retiring from all forms of cricket in October. (Getty Images)

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He will return to Australia where he plans to commentate for Network Ten on the Big Bash League as well as pursuing business interests. (Getty Images)

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But, with Australia's batsmen struggling to shine in the first Ashes Test against England at Trent Bridge this week, it was inevitable Ponting would be asked if his superb display would make him reconsider his decision to retire. (Getty Images)

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