IPL 2008: Best playing XI 

4. Shane Watson (Rajasthan Royals)

Shane Watson

The Australian all-rounder was a top draw for the Jaipur-based franchise in the first edition of the league. A class all-rounder by all sorts, Watson played a huge role in taking Rajasthan through to the finals and be eventually crowned as Champions of the inaugural edition.

A young player who had the ability to turn the game – both with bat and ball, was a great acquisition for the Royals. Despite going through an injury-prone phase in his career, Watson was bought at the second auction before the season in 2008.

He did a perfect all-rounders’ job by scoring runs and taking wickets to help his side in making it a successful maiden campaign. He picked 17 wickets at a decent economy of 7.07 and scored most – 472 runs for his side at an average of 47.02 with a strike rate in excess of 150. He was among the few senior players in the side, who led an inexperienced Royals’ squad.