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Home  » Sports » Watson slams Australia's selection policy

Watson slams Australia's selection policy

Source: PTI
November 26, 2008 16:31 IST
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Australia all-rounder Shane Watson, who was dropped for the second Test against New Zealand, lashed out at Cricket Australia's selection policy, saying the "horses for courses" approach will only create insecurity and undermine the confidence of the players.

"I do understand what they are saying, but, for me, if I'm a good enough player then I can adapt to whatever conditions are there," Watson, who bagged two wickets but let himself down with bat in both the innings in the first Test at the Gabba, told Australian Associated Press.

Australia skipper Ricky Ponting revealed a radical shift in selection thinking after the 149-run win at the Gabba, saying he wanted more flexibility in his squad -- with players picked more on their suitability to different conditions.

The 27-year-old Watson, who had a moderate performance during the recent four-Test away series against India, is ready to play in any conditions.

"In India, it was the first time I'd played a Test series over there and by the end I felt like I was able to adapt, especially with the ball, and really improve.

"That's how you get confidence and improve as a cricketer. So, from my point of view, I'd prefer to play in all conditions because that's the only way I will learn and improve," he said.

Watson said his own performance in Brisbane illustrated how instability could weigh on a player's mind and affect his form.

"The perfect example of that is in the (Gabba) Test match in the second innings when I was bowling. They're the things that are going through your mind because of the harsh reality of what was there. That is part and parcel of a performance-based game," Watson insisted.

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