This man has a smile on his face 24x7, even when you ask him seemingly embarrassing questions. For an Australian cricketer (the team does have the reputation of being the world champions at sledging), Shane Watson is unbelievably humble and polite, at least off the field
This man has a smile on his face 24x7, even when you ask him seemingly embarrassing questions. For an Australian cricketer (the team does have the reputation of being the world champions at sledging), Shane Watson is unbelievably humble and polite, at least off the field. In a chatty mood, in spite of the fact that the Rajasthan Royals are almost out of the IPL, Shane talks to CS about his love for the sport, while tossing a few Hindi words at us: 
Having a ball
I've been a part of the IPL for four years now and every year has been special. I carry some amazing memories right from 2009 when we lifted the trophy. It's unfortunate that I couldn't do as well as I might have wanted to this year, but that's how it is with cricket. We have our highs and lows. And we can expect brickbats when we fail, that's a part and parcel of our game. Maybe Indian players have a harder time living up to the country's expectations because it's a bigger country and hence there's more scrutiny. But frankly, that's what I love about India -- its passion and celebration of cricket. Playing with the Rajasthan Royals has been a lot of fun. I've spent time getting to understand the Rajasthani culture and am awestruck by the opulence of Jaipur's architecture. The stories of the Maharajas also fascinate me a great deal. They were fighters in the truest sense, and that's what I admire. I've also managed to learn a little Hindi, 'Kaise ho, aur kya chal raha hai?' Maybe I should reserve the rest of the phrases for another time, they're not too flattering (smiles).
Living a dream
Getting along with players from around the world isn't a big deal because we all share the same love for cricket. And after staying together for so many days, we've almost become like family. Yes, back-to-back matches and championships can be mentally and physically exhausting, but I'm not complaining because I never thought I would get such big opportunities in my life. When I think of the injuries that I've suffered in the past, it's a miracle that I'm playing such demanding cricket. And my past has probably changed my perspective of the game. Over time, I have also become less aggressive. Having said that, it does not mean that I enjoy failure. But while I was obsessively driven to be a successful cricketer earlier, now I'm more toned down. I dreamed of playing the sport professionally since the time I was a little child, and I am thrilled to be living that dream.
He's got the look
Yes, I do hear that I'm called a sex symbol, but I find that more flattering than embarrassing. Trust me, it isn't the same story back home in Australia. I get more attention from the Indian fans than I would from my people. But yes, I'm enjoying it to say the least.
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