Ashes 2013: Top five batsmen in the series

2. Shane Watson (Australia – 418 runs)

Shane Watson of Australia hits out during day five of the 5th Investec Ashes Test match between England and Australia at the Kia Oval on August 25, 2013 in London, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

The injury-prone blond-haired all-rounder did not have the best of starts when he opened the innings in the first couple of games. He returned to some form at Durham, making 68 in the first innings; however, Australia’s march to victory was foiled by an inspired spell from Stuart Broad in the second innings.

Watson made his mark in the final Test, smashing his third Test hundred at the Oval, finishing on a magnificent 176. He shared a 145-run stand with all-rounder Steve Smith as Australia scored 492/9 in their first innings; yet, England escaped with a draw and a 3-0 score line.

A case of too little, too late, but his 418 runs was the second best by any batsman in this series.