Shane Watson, the best opening choice, Michael Clarke, series vs Sri Lanka – Cricket News Update
Michael Clarke, the Australian Captain, has confirmed that their dashing batsman, Shane Watson, will open the innings in the Tests against Sri Lanka.
There has been extra pressure mounting on Watson as he might have to share the burden of fast bowling in case Australia decides to go with two spinners in a match.
It will be kind of double hard work for the opener who will come under immense pressure in the forthcoming three Test series. Clarke Said,
“No doubt it’s a concern. I don’t want to blow him out in the first Test knowing we’ve got three very important Test matches.”
Watson has scored 67 runs against Sri Lanka in two Twenty20 matches at an average of 33.50 runs with the best of 57 runs.
He managed 185 runs in five One Day Internationals on the current tour, averaging 37.00 runs with the best of 69 runs.
The right hander is in elevating form which will assist Australia to pile up huge scores and the vice-captain was keen to open the innings as well. Clarke narrated,
“He’s a big player for us. He’s our vice-captain and I want him scoring runs so if he’s happy there right now then I think we should keep him there.”
The 30-year-old made his debut in Test cricket against Pakistan on January 2, 2005 at Sydney Cricket Ground, which Australia won by nine wickets.
He has played 27 Tests, scored 1953 runs at a healthy average of 41.55runs, the best of 126 runs with two centuries and 15 fifties.
The all rounder has grasped 43 wickets averaging 31.41 runs per wicket, the best of 6 for 33 in an innings and 6 for 51 in a match.
Watson was consistent performer with the bat in the Ashes 2010-11, and was the second highest scorer for Australia by posting 435 runs in the series at an average of 48.33 runs, the best of 95 runs with four fifties while opening the innings.
Clarke has witnessed the compact batting of Watson and believed he could perform well at the opening slot. He assured,
“He’s been so good at the top of the order, I don’t think it will be smart to move him right now. Watto and I will keep communicating, but right now I know he’s loving opening the batting in all three forms.”
The first Test of the three match series will be played from August 31, 2011, at Galle International Stadium.