I still have that burning ambition: Watson


Sydney, Mar 18 (IANS): Australia's vice-captain Shane Watson left for India Monday to join the cricket team for the fourth cricket Test in Delhi starting Friday.

"I've had several constructive discussions with team management back in Mohali over the past few days. We've spoken about how we are going to work together to move forward, as Australia attempts to climb back to the top of the ICC rankings," said Watson.

"I've a burning ambition to be an Australian Test player for as long as I can be and help Australia win those big Test series' as well as the big ICC Tournaments," he said.

Watson, who was dropped from the third Test along with three others over a breach of discipline, returned home last week to be with his wife Lee for the birth of their first child. Lee delivered a baby boy, Will, last Thursday.

Watson originally expected to miss the fourth Test, but had to change his plans since the baby was born earlier than expected.

While leaving India, Watson made clear his displeasure at being dropped over the 'homework affair' and said he reconsider his Test future.

Watson was also angry at CA high performance manager Pat Howard's comments that he was a team man only "sometimes".

Watson said he had a chat with Howard and both are now on the same page.

"I have also had a number of chats with Pat Howard over the last week and we are both now on the same page and are really looking forward to working together to get Australia to be the best team in the world. I'm looking forward to getting around the boys again and concentrating on moving forward. I'm entirely committed to the team and being the best player I can be," Watson said.

Howard said: "Shane and I have had a number of positive conversations. I am glad to say that Shane will return from compassionate leave and rejoin the squad in India as the team prepares for the fourth Test in Delhi."

Skipper Michael Clarke had said that he had full faith in his deputy and hoped he would be back by the fourth Test.

Watson, along with Mitchell Johnson, Usman Khawaja and James Pattinson were dumped for not supplying feedback on how the team could improve after going 2-0 down in the series.

Australia head coach Mickey Arthur said: "It's been a big week for us all - both on and off the pitch. The whole Australian cricket team congratulates Lee and Shane on the safe arrival of baby Will.

"Covering all the bases while preparing for any Test match is key to both us and Shane's recommitment to the team in his chats with me this week have been really positive. We're looking forward to having Watto back and around the group as we prepare for the fourth Test."

  

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