Innings against Pakistan most important of my life: Watson

Australian all-rounder says he was lucky to survive Wahab's spell

KARACHI: Australian all-rounder Shane Watson, who faced the wrath of Wahab Riaz's bouncers in the 2015 World Cup quarter-final, said that his unbeaten knock of 64 runs against Pakistan was the most important innings of his life, reported NDTV.

"I thought about it as loud as it can get," said Watson.

"I had a lot of luck specially to be able to get through that couple of overs in that (Wahab Riaz's) spell. It worked well for me. It is the most important innings that I have played in ODI cricket as I said that I had a lot of luck through that phase because I was able to stay in and win the match for my team."

Read more: Wahab Riaz delivered spell of the World Cup: Sachin Tendulkar

Shane Watson has won two World Cups with the Australians and thinks the feeling resembles that of having a second baby.

"Well I don't have a second child yet but may be, it's a feeling close to that. First time in West Indies was special but to win it second time in front of the home crowd is what dreams are made of. I feel very lucky to be born at the right time to play World Cup at home," said Watson.

He also praised commended the effort of the pacers.

"Incredible. I mean the fast bowling unit of 2007 was as good as they got but the way this group executed the plans is incredible," he said.

"Mitchell Johnson, Mitchell Starc along with Josh Hazlewood, who came in during the later, complemented each other very well. We executed our plans against big teams like India and Pakistan perfectly.

"Starc has pace and swing. He has the variations to trouble the best batsmen in the world during death overs. He has the ability to bowl at different phases. And for someone so young and able to do that at big stage is a great thing," he added.

When asked if he is ready for his upcoming IPL stint with the Rajisthan Royals, he said, "No, I will be fine. We have played only nine games (World Cup) in 6 weeks whereas we normally play nine matches in three weeks. There has been less pressure on the body and easy to go."