Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has offered advice to Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne following their underwhelming performances in the opening match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT).

Ponting drew attention to Virat Kohli’s stunning return to form as an example of how the two Australian stars can regain their touch ahead of the second Test in Adelaide.

Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne were far from their best during the series opener in Perth. Smith managed a golden duck in the first innings, followed by a battling 17 in the second. Labuschagne faced 52 balls for just two runs in the first innings, followed by a mere three-run knock. Ponting acknowledged that both players are facing a tough time but advised them to take inspiration from Kohli's resurgence.

"Virat went back to trusting his game and he looked like a different player in the second innings than he did in the first innings," he added.

"He got away from trying to combat the opposition and focused on his strengths. That's what Marnus and Smith need to do - find their own way and show great intent," said Ponting.

Ponting referenced Virat Kohli’s century during India’s first Test against Australia. Kohli, who had been struggling with four single-digit scores in his last five innings, made a dramatic comeback with an unbeaten 100 off 143 balls.

"Marnus looked the most tentative out of all the batters in Perth. Yes, it was high-quality bowling on a difficult wicket, but he needs to find a way to turn it around," said Ponting.

Despite the loss in Perth, Ricky Ponting advocated for continuity in the team selection for the second Test in Adelaide, emphasizing faith in Australia’s champion players.

"I'd be sticking with the same side. You have to show faith in champion players. A lot of the guys we're talking about in this team have been champion players, maybe not recently, but they have proven their ability on the big stage," Ponting added.