Karachi: Former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson is hoping to make a big impression in his debut T10
season as the mainstay of the brand new T10 League Karachians franchise.
The burly top-order right-handed batsman who is also a capable right-arm medium pacer is one of the
most sought after players in the shorter formats around the world.
Watson will be making his maiden appearance in the T10 format that took the cricketing world by a storm
last December.
“I am really excited about this opportunity of playing for the Karachians, the players who played the
tournament last year really enjoyed it and said it was very well organized. The new format is action packed
and I as an all-rounder would love to make an important contribution to my team.”
Watson added that representing a city like Karachi was a big honour and he hopes to make the people of
the city proud with his performances.
“I hope I can make the people of Karachi smile, I also look forward to seeing the Karachites based in
Sharjah/Dubai at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium during the tournament, hopefully we will get their support.”
The globe-trotting Australian meanwhile is more keen to wield the willow in the T10 format as he feels
bowlers don’t have a lot going for them.
“I would definitely want to bat rather than bowl as bowlers are in for a hiding! (laughs) especially with the
small boundaries. Having said that, the format I feel will really help me further develop my game as you
have to be switched on both with bat and ball from the outset else you end up letting your team down.”
The 37 year old who represented Australia in 307 internationals across the three international formats
(Tests, ODIs and T20Is) has some great memories of his duels with Pakistani players.
“I loved the challenge of playing against Pakistan in any format. The players from there are hugely talented
and can be unstoppable when they get on top. I have some fond memories like my first Test century was
against them while the World Cup 2015 Quarter-Final match was another massive challenge especially my
battle with Wahab Riaz.”
Watson feels that Pakistanis are passionate for cricket and he has thoroughly enjoyed playing against
them or playing for Pakistan based franchises.
“The people from Pakistan are lovely and very friendly. I have had a great time playing with or against
them, the franchise-based events are a huge opportunity for learning different cultures and I have
thoroughly enjoyed my experiences with Pakistanis.”