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We need to play aggressively to beat India: Watson

Last updated on: February 28, 2013 17:37 IST

The Australians need to play their aggressive brand of cricket and be at their absolute best if they are to beat India in the second Test, says visiting all-rounder Shane Watson.

Watson, who in the team only as a batsman these days, said the side is determined to do well after suffering a heavy defeat in the series-opener in Chennai.

"We need to win this Test match. We need to be certainly at our absolute best to beat India. They played very well in the first Test. Ashwin bowled beautifully in those conditions and M S Dhoni batted unbelievably well to take the game away from our reach.

"So we have to be certainly at our absolute best," Watson said, after team's practice session on Thursday.

"We need to play our aggressive brand of cricket where we are best as a team. We need to find a way to make sure that we play that brand of cricket. We will be making sure as a team go out there and make sure that we are really up for the contest," he added.

Doherty in for second Test?

Last updated on: February 28, 2013 17:37 IST
Xavier Doherty

Watson did not reveal whether Australia will play an extra spinner in the second Test, beginning Saturday.

"I think that is something the selectors are weighing at the moment.

"No doubt that India's game plan in Chennai was significantly different from ours, as we saw in the second innings when their quick bowlers hardly had four or five overs which is a big contrast to what our team did. Options are going to be there.

"We have a game plan and have a team which can succeed," he said.

Watson seems to be happy with the wicket being offered for the Test at the Rajiv Gandhi International stadium.

"I think this will be really good cricketing wicket. The wicket here has always been good cricketing wicket. May be pace and bounce for the quicks and the batsman as well. It looks like it will turn at some stage. Really nice cricketing wicket," the strapping player said.

'Miss bowling in the last Test match'

Last updated on: February 28, 2013 17:37 IST
Shane Watson

Watson, who has been effective as bowler as well for the Australians, said he missed bowling in the Chennai Test.

"I did miss bowling in the last Test match, especially on the day when Dhoni started taking the game away from us in a way.

"I give up my bowling to get continuity with my batting and do some strength and fitness work that I had been doing over the last one month.

"I will continue for next three months then we will start bowling again."

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