Putting an end to speculations about retiring from all forms of cricket including IPL, Chennai Super Kings all-rounder Shane Watson confirmed that he will come back next year to represent CSK in IPL 2020.

The recently concluded 12th season of IPL, which CSK finished as runner-ups after suffering a narrow 1-run loss to eventual champions Mumbai Indians in the final, was deemed as the last appearance on the cricket field for Watson as he had already announced his retirement from Australia’s Big Bash League. But Watson, on Thursday cleared the air and vouched to return to help CSK take ‘that one step further.’

“I am looking forward to come back next year to take that one step further. Thanks again, everyone for all the support,” said Watson in a video message for the CSK fans.

“I want to thank everyone for the love, support and best wishes that you’ve given me over the last couple of days. We were so close to going past the finish line against Mumbai but it was an amazing final,” Watson added.

Watson battled a knee injury to score a fighting 80 off 59 deliveries for CSK in the final.

It was actually teammate Harbhajan Singh, who brought the matter to everyone’s notice by sharing a picture of Watson with blood-stained yellow trousers while batting in the IPL final.

“Respect brother what a LEGEND @srwatson33 given sweat, blood and everything for the team.. INSPIRING,” Singh wrote on Instagram.

“Can you guys see the blood on his knee.. He got 6 stitches after the game,” Harbhajan wrote.

“Got injured while diving but continue to bat without telling anyone,” the off-spinner added.

Watson was run out going for an unlikely second in the final over, and Mumbai paceman Lasith Malinga denied Chennai the two runs needed off the last ball to win the game and a record fourth title.

First Published: May 16, 2019 16:43 IST