Watson replaces Hayden in ODI squad

Shane Watson’s outstanding performances for Rajasthan Royals in the recently concluded DLF Indian Premier League (IPL) have earned him a place in the Australia one-day international squad for the side’s ongoing series against the West Indies.

Watson was recalled to his national side after opener Matthew Hayden failed to recover from an Achilles tendon injury which he picked up while playing at the IPL for his team, Chennai Super Kings. Hayden, who sat out for the first two Tests, is also slated to miss the third and final Test and will now be returning home to nurse the injury.

Watson was awarded the Player of the Tournament in the IPL scoring 472 runs and picking up 17 wickets for his side which eventually ended up winning the inaugural Twenty20 tournament. The Aussie’s recent batting prowess could well see him take the place of Hayden as the opener in the side.

Australian Chairman of Selectors Andrew Hilditch said that Watson’s domestic form backed by his good IPL performances deserved to be rewarded. He added that only a few months ago the Australian selectors had identified Watson as a potential opener for the Australian squad and his recent performances have only proven that.

Hilditch said that the Queensland all-rounder would be an “exciting” replacement for Matthew Hayden adding that his ability to bowl makes him a flexible player.

Other contenders vying for the opening slot, which now needs filling after Adam Gilchrist’s retirement and Hayden’s injury, include Shaun Marsh and James Hopes, other successful candidates at the IPL, and Australian wicketkeeper Brad Haddin.

The first one-day international between Australia and West Indies will be played at St. Vincent on June 24. This will be preceded by a Twenty20 match between the two sides at Barbados on June 21.