Indian Premier League franchise Chennai Super Kings opening batsman Shane Watson considers his century in the final match of IPL 2018 as “special”. Chasing a 179-run target, Watson had scored 117* (57) with the help of 11 fours and eight sixes to seal the chase in the penultimate over.
Speaking during a podcast with cricket.com.au, Watson also hailed CSK coach Stephen Fleming terming him the “best coach” that he has worked with.
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“That century in the final was very special – especially working with Stephen Fleming at the time. He is the best coach I have worked with. Fleming has a great cricket understanding – his mental skills and man-management skills are phenomenal,” Watson was quoted as saying.
Watson, who retired from international cricket post the ICC World Twenty20 in 2016, has been playing various T20 leagues around the world. Watson’s most recent stint was with Quetta Gladiators in PSL 2020 where he scored 247 runs in nine matches at an average of 27.44 and a strike rate of 157.32 including two half-centuries.
Shane Watson reminiscences playing under MS Dhoni at CSK
Having played for Rajasthan Royals in the IPL for a long time, Watson had a brief stint with Royal Challengers Bangalore before he was bought by Chennai ahead of IPL 2018.
Thinking of you all during these challenging times. One thing I have found during isolation is that there is a lot more downtime to work on things you love. I hope you enjoy what I have put together. https://t.co/BrXrPLFpmG 🏏 pic.twitter.com/lVjfr6Qiox
— Shane Watson (@ShaneRWatson33) April 9, 2020
In 32 matches for Super Kings, Watson has scored 953 runs at an average of 30.74 and a strike rate of 142.03 including two centuries and five half-centuries. Watson taking charge in the knockout matches has been his biggest positive for Chennai in the last two seasons.
Speaking about captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, whom he has credited for his batting performance in the past as well, Watson differentiated between playing against him and playing with him.
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“When you play against him, he gives away nothing. He is an ice-man on the field. But to work with him and to get to know him, was a great experience. I am so fortunate to meet so many people on the top of the game,” Watson said.
