Shane Watson has revealed his desire to open the batting for Australia across all formats ahead of his return to action.
The all-rounder has been forced to bat further down the order in Test cricket due to the blossoming partnership between David Warner and Chris Rogers, while Warner has also enjoyed success in limited-overs matches when opening with Aaron Finch.
However, Watson believes that he will produce his best form for Australia if he is asked to adopt an attacking approach against the new ball.
"I have had my best success opening in all formats," the 33-year-old, who will return from a calf injury for Sutherland this weekend, told Sydney radio station 2GB. "I love going in knowing I can just take on the game and not worry about the consequences, which is when I am batting at my best.
"The biggest challenge for me when I am batting down the order is assessing the situation of the game and also trying not to worry about getting out and that's normally when I get into a slightly negative mindset, which can affect my performance at times."
Australia captain Michael Clarke recently suggested that Watson will be asked to bat at three in next year's World Cup.
Callum Mulvihill
