Shane Watson all set to return against Chennai Super Kings

Steven Smith and Shane Watson celebrating after a win last season

Shane Watson has revealed that he expects to be fit in time for Sunday’s match against the Chennai Super Kings at the Sardar Patel Stadium, Ahmedabad. The Rajasthan Royals captain missed his side’s first four matches in this year’s Indian Premier League (IPL) due to a hip injury.

Australian Test vice-captain Steven Smith, who has been leading the Royals in Watson’s absence, has done a fantastic job, leading the team to four straight victories. The 2008 IPL champions are currently on top of the standings with 8 points on the board.

Watson has informed the public that he is recovering well from the injury and should definitely feature in tournament’s match.

“I got hit around the hip during the first training session of the tournament, and it has taken a bit of time to recover. I will surely be back in the team for our game against the Chennai Super Kings,” the 33-year-old said.

It will interesting to see the Royals’ combination once Watson returns as they have used an unchanged XI so far this season. South African all-rounder Chris Morris or New Zealand pacer Tim Southee will most likely have to make way for Waston who has been named the Player of the Tournament in the IPL twice (2008 and 2013).

Despite having bettered the Super Kings in the 2008 IPL final, the Royals have beaten the MS Dhoni-led team just five times and have lost 10 times. They will certainly be keen to improve that record, starting on Sunday.