Royal Challengers Bangalore are one of the major contenders for IPL 2016. With stars like Chris Gayle, Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers, they are a huge force in the competition. RCB further strengthened their team when they picked up Shane Watson during the auction in February.
Watson has played in various domestic T20 leagues around the world, like the Big Bash and the IPL, and has hence got a chance to play alongside stars of the cricket world. The all-rounder is primarily excited to play alongside Kohli and Gayle in IPL 2016.
"To get to know people off the field, it's a great thing. I get to meet a lot of different people. For example: I'll get to play with Virat and that's a huge buzz for me. I've had a few battles with him on the field and always had the utmost respect for him. Chris Gayle, we've had our run-ins. To get to know him off the field is exciting," Cricbuzz quoted Watson as saying.
There is an array of talent in the RCB camp, with Kohli, Gayle and De Villiers being their big guns. However, one should not only concentrate on the trio for they have the likes of Adam Milne, Kane Richardson, Yuzvendra Chahal, Sreenath Arvind, Varun Aaron and Travis Head.
Watson is in awe with the incredible strong squad, which RCB possess. The RCB, over the years, have always been a strong team, but are yet to win the title, which looks surprising. Last season as well, they failed to get past the playoff stages, despite possessing a wonderful team.
Watson has an integral role to play for RCB this season, with his all-round skills. He has been a brilliant IPL player in the past eight editions, scoring massive runs and taking crucial wickets with both the new and old ball.
The Australian has scored 2,372 runs and taken 61 wickets in IPL so far. No wonder, RCB spent Rs 9.5 crores to sign the player. Watson is primarily a top order batsman, but it remains to be seen, what number he walks into bat with Gayle, Kohli and de Villiers expected to feature in the top three. Watson is ready to bat in any position for RCB.
"My plan this year is to hopefully continue with both bat and ball. It's pretty exciting franchise to be part of. The quality of players that we have is pretty incredible. As an all-rounder, I give the team good options. I think that was one of reason I got to play for Australia at an early age. Very fortunate with the skill set that I have. I certainly enjoy contributing with both bat and ball. Bowling wise, in T20, you can get a bit exposed," Watson said.
"I've batted in all different positions. I've opened, batted at No. 3 and here I'm happy to fit in where ever is required with Chris, Virat and AB as well."
