SHANE Watson admits he would have loved to remain in South Africa as the Sydney Sixers booked a semi-final berth but understands the reasoning behind Cricket Australia’s decision to call him home.

Watson was told to return home early from the Champions League Twenty20 in order to prevent burnout and any potential injuries ahead of Australia’s busy summer schedule, one that includes Test series against South Africa and Sri Lanka.
But the most sought-after player in world cricket ensured he departed the lucrative tournament in all-too-familiar fashion, producing another strong all-round performance.
Watson claimed figures of 2-25 and smashed 47 runs off 38 deliveries with the bat as the Sixers recorded a five-wicket victory over the Highveld Lions on Thursday.
And while Watson, who was set to arrive in Sydney yesterday was keen to help the Sixers in their efforts for glory – the dual Allan Border Medallist – he conceded a premature return was in his best interests.
“Physically and mentally it wouldn’t have taken a toll at all,” the 31-year-old said.
“You do get brought up to play, that’s what you love doing, in the end you have to make the most of the time you do have to train and give yourself, especially with my history, the best chance physically of being ready as well.
“When there are opportunities to play you want to make the most of it.
“Unfortunately it’s just trying to get the best possible balance you can and in the end Cricket Australia and the medical staff thought it was the best way to go.
“Having the week to freshen up, definitely from that point of view, will mean I should be raring to go. It is disappointing to miss these games because it’s high-quality cricket that you’re playing and it is a lot of fun.” (CA)