Impressed Ponting is behind the underdogs

Ricky Ponting will be cheering for Kenya during tomorrow's second semi-final at Durban - and not just because he would rather face the rank outsiders than India in Sunday's World Cup showdown.

Australia's captain had a smile on his face when he said: "I'll be barracking for them."

That is hardly surprising, given India's form which has resulted in seven consecutive victories going into the Durban day-nighter.

But Ponting also believes Kenya deserve credit for their bold approach to a tournament which was supposed to have seen them blown away long ago.

"Kenya are the only one of the minnow sides who have had a real crack and tried to tackle the bigger nations head on," said Ponting following Australia's safe passage through to the final via a 48-run victory over Sri Lanka.

Australia completed their 'Super Six' programme with a five-wicket victory over Kenya in Durban. But the underdogs showed great spirit after crumpling to three for three and ended up making the World Cup holders sweat just a little.

"We had them in a fair bit of trouble early in the game but they fought really hard, got some runs on the board and gave themselves a chance to win," added Ponting.

The Australian will also be pleased to gaze out on a lively looking pitch when Australia arrive in Johannesburg for Sunday's final at The Wanderers.