Hope I can make the best of this opportunity: Watson

Jaipur: Shane Watson, the Australian allrounder, who is now almost a certainty in the Australian team for the first Test in Bangalore, is hoping he can use this tour to cement his place in the team.

An injury Watson suffered prior to the Ashes 2005 made way for Andrew Symonds, who made the most of that opportunity and cemented his place in the team. Since then, Watson has battled injuries and has fought back to be in the reckoning for a place in the Australian Test team.

Now, that he has been picked in the Australian touring party for India, Watson is determined to cement his place. He was reported saying, "I know how things can change, I got injured before the Ashes (in 2006) and it gave Andrew an opportunity - it's amazing how things do change.

"I don't feel bad, I hope Andrew gets back because I love the way he plays and I know what he can give, but like anything I've got to make the most of my opportunity."

The allrounder further thinks he can add value to the Australian team, both with the bat and the ball. He said, “What my bowling does give is a bit of impact, especially more so on the fourth and fifth day of a Test when I know I can come in, give it all I've got and have a bit of a crack.

As for as batting, Watson said, "I know I've got the technique to be able to bat in the top order. I've been doing it for Queensland ever since I started, so I know I've the technique to be able to bat anywhere."

"The opening role didn't really work out that well for me (when he experimented for Queensland last summer), that is a different mentality, but batting anywhere in the order I know I've got the game.

"If I do get an opportunity anywhere I know I can perform at it."

Tim Nielsen, the Australian coach said he was pleased at having an injury-free Watson back at his disposal. He said, “We've just been really pleased with the way he came through the West Indies tour, he's been able to cope with a couple of physical setbacks and keep playing which is a real positive for him and for us.”