The Sydney Thunder have unveiled star Australia all-rounder Shane Watson as its latest signing for the upcoming Big Bash League season.
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Watson has signed a three-year deal with the Thunder after stints with crosstown rivals Sydney Sixers and Brisbane Heat.
The 33-year-old showed his qualities in the T20 format of the game in the Indian Premier League this season, averaging 43.47 with the bat at a strike rate of 135.01.
Watson was also handy with the ball for the Rajasthan Royals, picking up six wickets.
The Queenslander is currently in preparations for the upcoming Test tours of the West Indies and the British Isles with the Australian squad, and Thunder general manager Nick Cummins said Watson was a massive addition to the squad.
“Shane is one of the best T20 players in the world,” Cummins said in a club statement.
“He’s a proven performer, and has plenty of big game experience that will be invaluable in the Big Bash.”
Watson says he’s looking forward to linking up with the Thunder squad and taking on a leadership role in the near future.
“I’m very excited, the Thunder is putting together a very strong squad, and have some quality players signed on long-term,” said Watson.
“There is the experience of Jacques (Kallis) and Huss (Michael Hussey) as well as some very talented young players.
“They are a club that’s growing on and off the field and I’m looking to make sure that growth continues over the next three seasons.”
Watson will be joined at the Thunder by Melbourne Renegades duo Fawad Ahmed and Ben Rohrer after both left the Victorian side to join Paddy Upton’s side.
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