Playing India big challenge: Shane Watson

Mohali: That one moment brought clarity to Shane Watson’s mind. Sitting in his hotel room and gazing at the Himalayan backdrop in Dharamsala, the Australia all-rounder decided it was time to bid goodbye to the game he has played for over a decade.

After nearly 11 years of international career that saw many high, lows and controversies, Watson couldn’t help but reflect on the memories. “No, not really (if anything had changed since the announcement),” Watson said here. “Apart from just really making the most of these last few games that I’ve got. After I announced my retirement, over the last day it’s been reminiscing a bit more. It’s the first time I really sat back and really looked at my career and the different highlights.”

Watson is now looking to finish on a high, and standing in the way are hosts India. The high-profile game on the morrow is expected to be a tight clash and Watson couldn’t agree more. “It would have been nice if Bangladesh held their nerves a little bit better, but they didn’t,” the 34-year-old said, adding, “It is the ultimate challenge to play India... the world class spinners they have always had. If you can beat India on Indian soil in any format, it’s an incredible achievement. Everyone in our team knows that. I certainly know that from plenty of experience here, so it’s going to be a great challenge and we certainly are going to be up for it.”