Shane Watson

Watson came up with some outstanding performances at the under-19 World Cup in 2000 to catch the eye of selectors.

Shane Watson came up with some outstanding performances at the under-19 World Cup in 2000 to catch the eye of selectors, who were on the lookout for an injection of youth in their aging Australian side.

Australia have have long been searching for a world-class all-rounder. Watson's abilities with bat and ball — supplemented by his close fielding around the bat — could eventually fill that gap.

He has all the shots in the book and, with the ball in hand, he bowls with real aggression and pace.

Another factor in his favour is that one of his biggest admirers is his state and national captain, Ricky Ponting.