Watson hopes to be fit by next home game

Australia

Australia all-rounder Shane Watson has not been able to play in the Indian Premier League for the Rajasthan Royals yet, and they've been doing just fine without him, and he's happy about that.

Watson, officially the Royals' captain, has missed all three of their wins due to injury, and Steve Smith has led the side with aplomb, the latest a seven-wicket drubbing of Mumbai on Tuesday.

Watson told the IPL website that he was happy to watch the victories from the sidelines, but was eager to get back on the field and hoped to do so by the next home game.

He said: "It has been a great start to the tournament for us. I have been very excited about this year because we have a very strong squad. It’s great that we have been able to put it together so far. 

"We got out of jail against Delhi Daredevils and to finish the game today like that was wonderful. Steve Smith batted beautifully today, as he continues to do."

He said of hs chances of playing soon: "I got hit around the hip during the first training session of the tournament and it has taken a bit of time to recover. 

"We are going to travel to Vizag overnight, so it’s going to be touch and go for the next game. I will surely be back in the team for our game here against the Chennai Super Kings."

Of Smith, who made 79 not out against Mumbai, Watson compared him to South Africa star batsman AB de Villiers, given his incredible ru of form, stretching back to late 2014.

Watson said: "I think he is on par with AB de Villiers at the moment and Virat Kohli when he is at his best. It is incredible to see him just continue to pile on the runs in every format. It looks like it’s not going to end and let’s hope it doesn’t for quite a while." 

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