Sydney, Feb 12 - Former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting believes that Michael Clarke should step down from one-day captaincy, and hand over the premier role to Steve Smith after the conclusion of the World Cup.

The two-time World Cup winning captain said that the right time for Michael to hand over the one-day captaincy to Steven will be after the conclusion of this World Cup, adding that retiring from one-day games would also allow Michael's body regular rest and recovery periods, News. com. au reported.

Admitting that Clarke is perfect to lead Australia during World Cup, Ponting said that it would be a good time for Steven to take over the one-day job and Michael to remain as Test captain after the conclusion of World Cup.

Following his return from hamstring surgery, Clarke smashed 64 runs in a warm-up match against the United Arab Emirates on Wednesday.

Australia will open their World Cup campaign against England on 14 February in Melbourne. (ANI)