Darren Lehmann: Shane Watson must contribute with the bat to justify all-rounder tag

Shane Watson

Melbourne, Dec 21 (IANS) Australia coach Darren Lehmann on Sunday said Shane Watson must contribute to the team's cause with the bat to justify his all-rounder status.

The versatile right-hander played a vital role with his lively seamers in Brisbane and worked well in tandem with fellow pacers to trouble the Indian batsmen. Bowling as the fourth-choice quick, he picked up a wicket in the Test match for his efforts.

"We think Shane Watson did a really good job for us with the ball," Lehmann was quoted as saying by the Sydney Morning Herald.

"Obviously, we'd like him to make more runs but he did a good job with the ball and he can do that all-rounder role for us. That's why we went with a batter."

The 33-year-old is averaging 24 this year and is yet to score a fifty in eight innings. Lehmann expressed concern about it but praised his commitment and expected him to carry on the impressive bowling form.

"Watson bowled really well, he was one of our best bowlers," he said.

"Didn't get the wickets he'd like, but he certainly did the job we needed at the time. (He had) very good control. Bowled a lot more overs than normal, which was great to see. Expect him to do the same in Melbourne."