IPL 2018: CEO of CSK reveals how Shane Watson was drafted in by Dhoni

Shane Watson hasn’t had an overwhelming Indian Premier League last time around for the Royal Challengers Bangalore. The Queenslander faltered with both bat and ball and subsequently was released by the franchise. However, the swashbuckling all-rounder has shown prime form in the Big Bash League (BBL) and the Pakistan Super League (PSL).

After his sterling performances, he has been duly rewarded as the Chennai Super Kings roped in the veteran for INR 4 crore in the auction. Recently, Kasi Vishwanath, The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) spoke to the media regarding Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s influence in the decision making.

CSK pleased by Watto’s recent performances  

“We knew his potential as an all-rounder. Anyone can have a bad season. We discussed with our captain MS Dhoni about the prospects of having Watson in the team and Dhoni was happy. We felt Watson still has a lot to offer. When we found out that he is fit and doing well in Big Bash League, we backed him. He has been terrific in the ongoing PSL as well. We are pleased with the way he has been shaping up,” Vishwanath was quoted as saying by Times of India.

CSK have previously boasted of quality all-rounders like Dwayne Bravo who has been a fulcrum of their setup in the erstwhile seasons. The CEO iterated Watson’s role in the lineup and the experience he carries. “Watson fits into the type of all-rounders we have had in the past. Watson is a floater with the bat. He can preferably open but move around the order too. It was a conscious effort to have such a cricketer in the mix.” He added.

The Chennai Super Kings hasn’t had much to cheer for as they served a two-year suspension owing to match-fixing scandals. However, apart from that, they have had a tremendous run in the previous editions of the tournament.