The Hindu : Sport : Playing in India a big challenge: Watson

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Friday, Sep 26, 2008
ePaper | Mobile/PDA Version

Sport

Sport

Playing in India a big challenge: Watson

Y.B. Sarangi

The Australian all-rounder is determined to do his best

— Photo: AFP

GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY: In the absence of Andrew Symonds, Shane Watson will be eager to prove his credentials as an all-rounder.

JAIPUR: There is a strange calmness in the Australian camp. And Shane Watson is not sure whether it is part of the team’s strategy ahead of the Test series against India.

There is no mistaking the lack of rhetoric that has so often marked the beginning of an India-Australia series. The last series, revolving around the Sydney controversy, was a tumultuous one and drew a lot of criticism for the Australians. Perhaps, that is the reason why the team is steering clear of controversies now.

Biggest test

“I am not sure (whether it is part of the strategy). We are focused and looking forward to the series, strategising and formulating our game plan. For everyone of us, it is the biggest test to play and win a series in India — physically, mentally and technically,” Watson said after his team’s three-hour nets session at the Rajasthan Cricket Association’s Centre of Excellence ground here on Thursday.

“It is an inexperienced team but all the guys are taking it as a challenge. They want to prove that they can win a series against an experienced Indian team in India despite being rookies,” Watson said.

The 27-year-old relived the thrilling finish of the Sydney Test during India’s tour of Australia last year.

“The rivalry between India and Australia has become intense in recent years.

“It has become the biggest challenge for the Australian cricketers to play and win a series against India.

Amazing

“It was amazing for a Test match to be decided in the last 20 minutes on the fifth day. I hope this series will have tough encounters like that which go right down to the wire.”

Watson was, however, not willing to say whether the India-Australia rivalry was bigger than the Ashes. “The rivalry with India has become really big, but this and the Ashes are different challenges. The English conditions are totally different, while the pitches in India are slow and low, and the conditions are really demanding for a cricketer.”

The Queenslander preferred to look at the positive side of things and denied that stepping into the shoes of someone like Andrew Symonds would put him under pressure. “I see this as a great opportunity. Coming to India and playing Tests is a great challenge. My only focus is to do well in India if given a chance.”

Watson, who turned out for Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League, was happy that he had gained some confidence by playing in India.

“I have not been fortunate enough to play a Test in India, but I was fortunate enough to play in the IPL. I played in different Test grounds in India during the IPL and that should give me confidence,” said the Aussie who was adjudged the ‘Player of the Tournament’ in the IPL.

Keen to get back

Watson has just played three Tests and hopes to be back in the playing XI after a gap of three years. And he is well aware of his responsibilities in the Australian team. “My role would be of an impact bowler, bowling short bursts for breaking partnerships and propping up the batting. That suits my game.”

It is important to learn from mistakes and Watson has done just that. Having missed several important series due to injuries, the Australian now knows how to take care of his body.

“I am doing things differently and not over-training. Earlier I used to do extensive training which I thought was important for the game. But I have become a lot smarter and pay attention to recovery. Physically, I am in my best condition,” Watson said.

Printer friendly page
Send this article to Friends by E-Mail

Sport