Like alot of other people here, Ponting at his peak was the best batter in the world for me. The only one who comes close is Dravid.
But if we're being honest, Ponting after 2007 was not a particularly great player. He regressed significantly and the side regressed under his captaincy aswell.
But Ponting in that 2003-06 was incredible to watch. The most brutal player against short-bowling and an absolute beast of a cricketer.
He is lightyeaes ahead of dravid. He is way better than Tendulkar.
Indian fans are too nostalgic. They overrate their batsmen.