Shane Watson pledges to raise money for charity during the World Cup

Shane Watson

Sydney, January 27 (IANS) Apart from winning the World Cup, star Australian all-rounder Shane Watson has added motivation to be fit for the One-Day International (ODI) showpiece, where he'll be raising money for research into motor neuron disease (MND).

Watson has pledged to donate $200 for every boundary he hits, $300 for each six and the same amount per a wicket, reports news.com.au.

“No extra motivation is needed during a World Cup but this certainly provides it, to know that every time I find the middle of the bat and score runs, means I continue to raise money for such an important cause,” he said.

The 33-year-old said he was inspired by MND sufferer and founder of Cure 4 MND, Dr Ian Davis, whom he met a few months ago.

“From that day onwards, (I was) blown away by Ian's courage and how tireless he's working to try and make a difference,” he said.

“After talking to him I realised this was a way I could have some impact in a world-renowned tournament so hopefully we can continue to get (the message) out there.”