Watson to make comeback in Sydney grade match to stake claim for Oz squad berth

India Gazette (ANI) Wednesday 8th February, 2012

Injured all-rounder Shane Watson will finally make a comeback with Sutherland in Sydney grade cricket to prove that he is ready for inclusion in the national squad.

Watson, 30, has been recovering from a hamstring injury and a calf strain.

Australian coach Mickey Arthur had earlier said Watson needed the hit-out in club land.

Watson will be joined by Australia teammate Steve Smith, former Test opener Phil Jaques and Sydney Sixers star left-hander Nic Maddinson in the February 9 training session.

"We've been looking forward to this for a long time. We thought Shane would play with us back in round three two years ago," Fox Sports quoted Sutherland stalwart Tom Iceton, as saying regarding Watson's much-anticipated debut.

"Australia had just returned from South Africa, NSW were in India for the Champions League, and Shane didn't qualify because he had been with Queensland the previous season. He wanted to play, but CA didn't allow it," he added. (ANI)