After a stunning PSL campaign, can Watson propel CSK?
What's the story
Shane Watson is enjoying sublime form at the moment and he will hope to carry on with the momentum in the upcoming 12th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Watson had a defining Pakistan Super League 2019 and was adjudged Player of the Tournament award.
The IPL 11 finale hero is once again expected to light up the campaign for Chennai Super Kings.
Watson
Watson was a hit in the PSL
The former Aussie all-rounder ended up with 430 runs in just 12 games for title-winners Quetta Gladiators.
He smashed four half-centuries and averaged 43 with the bat, besides striking the ball at 143.81.
The 37-year-old veteran stood tall against Peshawar Zalmi.
He hit a 43-ball 71 in the Qualifier and had smashed another 55-ball 91 in a league game.
BBL08
Before PSL, Watson had a decent BBL08 campaign
Watson's form is a huge bonus for CSK going into IPL 2019.
The global T20 superstar had earlier scored 344 runs in 14 matches for Sydney Thunder in the Big Bash League.
He had hit a century as well in the BBL08 campaign.
CSK will hope that Watson continues in the same vein and gets the side off to a strong start.
IPL 11
Watson helped CSK win IPL 2018 title
Watson played a huge role for MS Dhoni-led CSK in IPL 11.
He amassed a total of 555 runs in 15 matches for the southern giants.
The veteran scored a match-winning century in the final against Sunrisers Hyderabad to lead CSK to their third IPL honor.
Overall, the star player hit two centuries and was unstoppable alongside Ambati Rayudu at the top.
Quote
Quetta captain Sarfraz Ahmed was in awe of Watson
Quetta captain Sarfraz Ahmed lauded Watson for a decisive show. "Watson has performed consistently for us throughout the tournament. He is a big player who can win matches single-handedly, He goes on to win games for his team." he said.
Our take
Watson will relish the challenge in IPL 12: Our take
Watson will relish the challenge of making an impact for CSK in IPL 12.
He is enjoying his cricket at the moment and the consistency is there for everyone to see.
CSK will give him the freedom to go and express himself and score plenty of runs.
He is a vital force for the defending champions and his experience is so vital.