Watson: CSK stuck with me through thick and thin

Batsman grateful

Shane Watson in bat for Australia

Chennai Super Kings batsman Shane Watson is eager to improve on a disappointing 2019 campaign during the 2020 Indian Premier League.

Watson scored a mere 398 runs in 17 innings during last year's IPL.

In 2018, he had collected 555 runs in 15 innings – and scored a century to lead Chennai to victory in the final against the Sunrisers Hyderabad.

“The 2018 season was one of my better seasons, it wasn't just the final,” Watson told the Nabeel Hashmi YouTube show.

“But last year, certainly CSK stuck with me through thick and thin. In every other team that I've been in, I may have been dropped a couple of games before I got the runs against the Sunrisers Hyderabad.

“Just them backing me, knowing my next few good innings were around the corner, was amazing. Only world-class leaders will really stick by and have the confidence to do that, given the calibre of the players we've got.

“That was great learning for me as well, to be honest, to show that if you believe in someone, you believe in their ability, because you've seen what they've been able to do time and time again and that they will come good at some stage.”

Watson's Domestic T20 Career

The 39-year-old Watson has played in domestic T20 tournaments all around the world, including the Big Bash League in Australia, Bangladesh Premier League, Pakistan Super League and Caribbean Premier League.

Before joining CSK, he represented the Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL.

CSK had full faith in me, they're an incredible franchise to play against. When I played for Royals against Chennai, I always admired Stephen Fleming, and MS Dhoni as well, the way he carried himself on and off the field,” he added.

“To be able to play at CSK and experience the way the franchise is run incredibly well from top-down was a very special experience. I do feel fortunate to have this part of my career of the IPL in the last few years, to play for a franchise that looks after everyone so unbelievably well.”

This year's Indian Premier League will be played in the United Arab Emirates.

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Jonhenry dedicates his global gaming knowledge to the iGaming industry. He produces content about cricket, in addition to playing and training.