George Bailey is the right man to lead Australia into the World Cup in February if Michael Clarke is unfit, says former captain Ricky Ponting.

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There’s been strong speculation that Steve Smith could get the ODI team job after his impressive performance when he took over the Test team captaincy from the injured Clarke and led Australia to victory over India at the Gabba last week.

But ODI vice-captain Bailey already has good experience leading that team when Clarke was absent in the past and Ponting said on Tuesday he could see no better option than his fellow Tasmanian.

“I can’t see any reason whatsoever that there would be anyone other than George Bailey if Michael is not fit,” Ponting told reporters in Hobart on Tuesday.

“He’s been an unbelievable player for Australia for the last few years, he’s led the team really well and he’s got some experience going into a World Cup which is what you need.

“He’s a perfect fit for me, I don’t think there should be any argument whatsoever.”

Ponting was speaking in Hobart where he received life membership of Cricket Tasmania.