Watson realistic about Test chances

Shane Watson's excellent form for Hampshire has increased speculation of his inclusion to Australia's Test squad. © Getty Images

Fresh from his efforts in helping guide Hampshire to victory in the C&G Trophy final, Shane Watson was quick to deny speculation that he is on the verge of being called into Australia's squad for the final Test at The Oval. His recent double-century in the Championship and impressive bowling are making a powerful case for his inclusion.

"I haven't heard anything, nothing," Watson told reporters after the final. "I do think about getting my opportunity, especially when you see the way Andrew Flintoff has played this summer. I'm not in his class yet but hopefully I could a similar job."

However, even though Watson's inclusion would mean a new balance to the Australian side, he jumped to the defence of their policy of playing four bowlers. "That's why we've been so good over the last ten years. You've got Shane Warne and Glenn McGrath who have been bowling teams out for fun. But England are obviously batting very well and bowling well."

He said that although he would not want to get into the side through someone's injury, he is making sure he is ready if his moment does arrive.

"You don't want other players to get injured, but I have had my fair share of misfortune with injuries so you never know what is around the corner. I've just got to try and continue improving my game and, if an opportunity does come up through injury or form, hopefully I will be right and at the top of my game to perform well."

He added: "I'd love to be able to play in the fifth Test, it's a massive game for Australian cricket. I'd love to be a part of that but all I worry about is trying to perform well for Hampshire and see what happens from there."

Watson, who played during the one-day matches before the Ashes series began, said that England's performances have come as no surprise. "The most important thing, the reason why England have done so well, is that they have bowled Australia out."

"Australia have been so good over the last ten years because the top order has been scoring runs all the time. The problem this series is that they have not been scoring consistently. England are bowling extremely well and unfortunately we haven't been up to the task. Hopefully we can be in the last Test."

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