IPL 2014: Five valuable overseas players - Predictions

Shane Watson (Rajasthan Royals)

Shane Watson

The Australian all-rounder will once again return to the franchise that he helped win the inaugural title in 2008, as the senior-most member of the side. With cricket legend Rahul Dravid walking off into the sunset on the completion of the Champions League in 2013, the blond-haired Watson will, in all likelihood, take on the mantle of captaincy in this season.

Watson has been in phenomenal form this year, starting with the tour of India for the seven-match ODI series in October and November, followed by reasonable performances in the return leg of the Ashes against England towards the end of the year. Twenty20 is a format he particularly enjoys, given the fact that only four overs can be sent down by a bowler, which allows him to focus on his batting.

A fine exponent of seam bowling, using the short ball to telling effect, Watson’s big hitting will give the Royals an added advantage. Along with Stuart Binny and James Faulkner, he forms an explosive combination, and his leadership skills will be put to the test – though I expect he will pass with flying colours!