Rajasthan lose but Watson shows his 'royal' class

Shane Watson's maiden IPL ton on Monday was also the first of the sixth edition of the tournament. It took him 60 deliveries and months of battling past adversities to announce that he still has the reputation of being a dedicated warhorse - whatever the format.

Playing for Rajasthan Royals, Watson arrived for the tournament late and his first match - against Mumbai Indians - was quite ordinary. Those who underlined that he has lost his form and technique were quickly muted at the Chepuak as the 31-year-old dismantled spin and pace with equal disdain. Two-time IPL champions Chennai Super Kings had no answer to the sheer power on display.

However, his century was overshadowed by fifties from Mike Hussey and Suresh Raina as the home team registered a 5-wicket win.

"From the batting perspective, it was a good knock but would take all back for a win. We took them on but unfortunately, we finished on the wrong end," said a disappointed Watson.

The Aussie said his side failed to execute its plans despite having a very good total to defend.

"We knew we had a lot of runs on that wicket. But we also knew Chennai bat deep. We probably didn't execute out plans well but that's T20 cricket," he added.

Power though has been inherent in this all-rounder from Queensland. When his team toured India earlier this year, Watson found himself embroiled in a controversy that many said would ruin his dwindling career. It didn't.

Failing to submit a report on how the side can improve, he was dropped from the playing XI by coach Mickey Arthur. There were also reports of rift with skipper Michael Clarke.

In the midst of the mayhem - reported extensively by both the Indian as well as the Australian press - Watson became the proud father of a baby boy. The jubilation soon took complete control and he chose to return to the side after being quoted as saying that he was sorry for flouting instructions. He even led the team in the fourth Test against India after Clarke was ruled out due to injury.

Injuries have threatened Watson's career too with a calf injury in December last year forcing him to tell selectors that he wished to concentrate on his batting and not bowl. Yet, he rolled his arms over in his second match of IPL 6 - against Bangalore - and even took two wickets.

A valuable asset for his T20 side, Watson on Monday showed exactly why his threat can never be brushed aside - a signal for not just IPL oppositions but even international teams which may have been taking solace from his injuries, tipsy form till recently and decision to quit as Australia's vice-captain last Saturday.