ICC World Twenty20: After recent success, Shane Watson deserves to bat at No. 3 for Australia

New Delhi: Australian veteran all-rounder Shane Watson deserves to bat higher up the order for his side in the upcoming ICC World Twenty20 starting from March 8 in India.

Watson had a successful BIG Bash League (BBL) with the Sydney Thunder and played a pivotal role in winning the competition for his side last month. Interestingly, he batted at the No. 3 position during the tournament.

The performances saw him being rewarded with a comeback to the Australian T20I squad against India and Watson paid the trust with a brilliant 124* in the 3rd match in Sydney while opening the innings.

Australia have a solid opening combination in David Warner and Aaron Finch and it is unlikely that Watson will be handed the role. But the 34-year-old could come in next as the No. 3 batsman ahead of skipper Steve Smith who naturally prefers the position.

Watson's role down the order hasn't seen him flourishing as a batsman for the Aussies and with his attributes suited to batting upfront, Smith might choose to come at No. 4.

Australia will want Watson to perform to his abilities given his vital experience of conditions in the subcontinent. Watson had played seven seasons for the Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League and was highly successful.

As a result of a two-year ban on the Royals, Watson was bought by the Royal Challengers Bangalore in the February 6 auctions for 9.5 crores, which made him the costliest player at the event.

Watson had stated on Tuesday that the selection for Australia felt like an added bonus.

“The T20 selection felt like the added bonus on top of what had happened for the previous six weeks,” said Watson.

The dynamic all-rounder, who suffered an abdominal strain, saw his campaign cut short in the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL). Despite the injury, the experienced player is confident of making a return citing it will take a couple of weeks for him to bowl and bat.

Australia have a tough Group in the ICC World Twenty20 which also comprises of hosts India, New Zealand, Pakistan and a qualifier.