Integrity

Today Ricky Ponting conceded his One Day International career over after 13,704 runs, 375 matches and 3 World Cups.

Throughout this sparkling one-day career, and cricketing career as a whole, Ricky Ponting has always been a polarising character. A marvelously gifted batsman and hugely successful captain, his unwavering commitment to doing things his way has made the Australian public either love him or hate him.

At times his captaincy’s been criticised and his temperament questioned, but like him or not, he’s been an exemplary leader and can be held up as defining three very valuable leadership qualities.

Integrity
What you saw with Ponting is exactly what you got. He didn’t muddle his words and was the same gritty, uncompromising character on the field as he was off it. Throughout his career there were skeptics questioning his honesty and character as captain, but if he appealed for a wicket, it’s because he thought it was out. No ifs or buts.

Integrity means being the same person inside and out. It’s saying what you do and doing what you say. Leaders with great integrity instil trust, and when people trust you they give you their best because they know they’re always going to get yours.