Australian captain Ricky Ponting has apologised for swearing as he left the ground after being run out by an England substitute fielder on a dramatic third day of the fourth Test at Trent Bridge.

With Australia batting a second time aiming to save the match and keep the Ashes series level, Ponting was run out by sub Gary Pratt, who was on the field because of ankle injury to bowler Simon Jones.

The Australians have objected to England's practice this summer of replacing their bowlers on the field with gun fielders from county sides.

Ponting is understood to have sworn as he left the ground, while it is also alleged he said something, as he walked up the race, in the direction of England coach Duncan Fletcher, who was on his side's balcony.

Australia was 4-222 in its second innings at stumps, still trailing by 37 runs with six wickets in hand and two days to play after following on for the first time in 17 years.

Ponting, run out for 48, issued a statement through the side's media manager.

"I was very disappointed with my dismissal given it was a crucial stage of the game and I'd worked really hard to get to that position," Ponting said.

"I no doubt let myself down with my reaction and for that I apologise to those that view me as a role model.

"My frustration at getting out was combined with the disappointment of being run out by a sub fieldsman, an issue that has concerned us since the start of the summer and one which we raised prior to the series."

Australia raised the matter with umpires and match referee Ranjan Madugalle before the Test series started.

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