Australia may have been whitewashed by India in the recent Twenty20 series but for all-rounder Shane Watson being called up to represent his country gave him a fresh lease of life and a much needed confidence boost as he had feared that his international career was as good as over.
With a century and three wickets at an economy of less than 6.5 under his belt from three T20 matches against India, Watson is in the perfect frame of mind and will be more than confident of taking the flight to India for the World T20 which starts next month.
And according to Watson, his stint with Islamabad United in the Pakistan Super League being staged in Dubai can help him prepare for tougher challenges in India.
“It’s very important to start well. We have to get used to these conditions, which will be a lot similar to what they will be in India and it’s great preparation in the lead-up to the World Cup,” Watson said at the ICC Academy in Dubai Tuesday.
“It’s going to be a lot of fun so I can’t wait for the event to start. It is really nice to be batting this well at the moment. It feels good to have contributed in the games that I played (against India). I am thrilled to be in Dubai and want to put in some good performances for Islamabad United.”
Watson is particularly looking forward to playing under the watchful eyes of former Australia batsman Dean Jones and legendary Pakistan left-arm quick Wasim Akram, who will be head coach and team director respectively at the Islamabad franchise, and picking their brains.
“Deano was one of my heroes growing up and certainly knows the game very well. He has got a great mind and it will be nice to work with him a lot more closely.
“Another person I’m very excited about is Wasim Akram. He was still playing when I started my career in one-day cricket (in 2002) and always loved his skill. To work closely with him, is something I’m very excited about,” the burly all-rounder explained.
The tournament starts tomorrow with Islamabad taking on Quetta Gladiators at the Dubai Cricket Stadium but talks have already started on the PSL making a possible trip to Pakistan for a few games in future editions.
International teams continue to avoid travelling to the country over security concerns but PSL chief Najam Sethi foresees a few PSL matches in Pakistan next year, if the atmosphere in the country is calm. And Watson is keeping his fingers crossed.
“I had a really good time in 2005 when Australia toured Pakistan. But security is the most important thing. If a place is declared very safe, then I love playing cricket wherever it is around the world,” Watson added.
“Fingers are crossed for everyone’s sake and not just for cricketers but for the people in Pakistan as well. Pakistan have not had home advantage for a long time now because of security concerns and hopefully it works out well. Everyone has their fingers crossed.”
For Pakistan batsman and Lahore Qalandars star Azhar Ali too, the tournament is the perfect opportunity to prepare for the World T20 as top class players will be competing in the shortest format in conditions similar to
the ones that will be on offer in India.
“The PSL is happening at the perfect time. There is the Asia Cup next and then the World T20. So one can’t ask for better preparation for the World T20. Conditions will also be similar so it is going to be of great help,” said Ali.
While the T20 format is very exciting, the game has progressed quickly over the past few years and there is a fear that Pakistan’s domestic players have not quite kept pace with the changes and innovations.
Ali is confident a few young players will surprise everyone with their talent.
“Innovation is very important. All players are trying to enhance their skills. The PSL is also an opportunity to unearth new talent. Playing with experienced T20 players can be very good for the youngsters. I am confident the players will give it their all.”
