Watson has the upper hand

It’s been a long time since any position in the Australian ODI line-up has been under such scrutiny. For a team that is used to picking itself, the incessant speculation over Adam Gilchrist’s opening partner is unusual to say the least. On the eve of the Champions Trophy proper, however, comments from John Buchanan seem to suggest that the debate is about to be laid to rest.

Speaking to the Sun-Herald, Buchanan said,”I know the selectors have been looking very closely at that whole opening position. There’s been a lot of conjecture about it. Out of Malaysia, I think they were reasonably impressed with Shane. He had another opportunity here to impress his claims and he took that opportunity.” He then went on to express sympathy for Katich’s situation, saying, “”From Simon’s point of view, it’s extremely difficult personally. I know Andrew Hilditch, Ricky Ponting, everybody feels that way – in essence Simon has done most things asked of him.”

While Watson has excelled with 2 quickfire half-centuries in his 3 outings as opener( although only one was against an international side), Katich’s strike rate of 66 makes him a far less attacking option at the top of the order.