Australian all-rounder Shane Watson [ Images ] has said he is prepared to shift down the batting order if his increased bowling demands put a strain on his ability to compile big scores as an opening batsman.

Watson has been used extensively as a fourth fast bowling option in the ongoing three-match Test series against Sri Lanka [ Images ].

"I really do enjoy opening the batting, taking on the quicks with the new ball, but it does depend on what my role is, if I'm going to bowl a lot more," the Sydney [ Images ] Morning Herald quoted Watson, as saying.

"I feel my body is really coping and handling the overs a lot better as well. At the moment I'm definitely opening the batting, but if my role changes a little bit I'm happy to bat anywhere to make sure we've got the best people in the right positions," he added.

The 30-year-old, however, admitted that his primary job is to open the batting and score runs. 

"There's no doubt being an all-rounder and bowling, mentally and physically it does take a lot more out of you than guys who just bat. But that's part of being an all-rounder, being able to play a role in the game whether I'm batting or bowling. I've just got to get better at capitalising on the bigger scores," Watson said.