Since taking its place at the Tasmanian Test venue alongside fellow diminutive Launceston batsman David Boon, the Ponting statue has sparked plenty of debate.

Nobody disputes the Mowbray man's right to the honour after retiring as Australia's all-time leading run-scorer, but many have been critical of its dubious resemblance to the subject and stance in a rather robotic pull shot.

While Ponting's former Test teammate Chris Rogers suggested it looked more like pace bowler Brett Lee, visitors to the statue during this week's Test match between Australia and the West Indies offered alternative views.

Seven-year-old Angus Thomas, of Melbourne, approved. "I love Ricky so I think it's excellent."

But his mum Karen added: "Isn't it a bit tall for Ricky?"

Meanwhile, Andrew Simmons, who lives in Western Australia but used to play cricket in Tasmania for Kingborough, said:

"It is impressive. It makes him look like a West Indian."

Launceston Mayor Albert van Zetten was among the spectators checking out the statue and was impressed by what he saw.

"I think it's fantastic to have honoured Ricky and well deserved," he said.

"In Launceston we've given him the key to the city and hosted his tribute game, which attracted the biggest crowd for a cricket match in Tasmania, so we are also very proud of him."

The Examiner