Clarke was yesterday appointed captain of Australia’s Test and one-day teams after Ponting stepped down a day earlier in the hope of prolonging his career as a batsman.
Clarke, 29, said he did not expect Ponting’s presence to be any impediment to the establishment of his authority as Australia’s 43rd Test captain.
He expects to rely on the advice of senior players, including Ponting, as he settles into his new role.
Clarke will lead Australia for the first time in three one-day internationals in Bangladesh early next month.
All-rounder Shane Watson will be his vice-captain for the first time on that tour, while Ponting has been named as a batsman.
“I certainly don’t think Ricky will be an elephant in the room,” said Clarke.
I certainly don’t think Ricky will be an elephant in the room
“I know he will allow me to do my job to the best of my ability. I’m confident if he can continue to play as well as he has done for such a long time, it can work.”
Online newspaper polls conducted after Ponting’s resignation showed more than 70 per cent did not support Clarke’s appointment.