Archive · 20 Aug 2026
Shane Watson Calls India a Second Home, Praises Fan Support
Shane Watson is a former Australian cricket player.
He spoke at an Indian Independence Day celebration in Sydney.
Watson said India feels like a second home to him.
He has played cricket in India for many years.
He said Indian fans usually supported him instead of judging him when he struggled.
He felt Australian support could be more judgmental when his performances were poor.
The Indian Premier League helped him build a stronger connection with the country.
He also enjoys India’s vegetarian food and likes seeing how the country has changed.
Shane Watson described India as his “second home” at an Independence Day event in Sydney.
He said Indian cricket fans made him feel more welcomed and supported than fans in Australia.
Watson credited the Indian Premier League’s arrival in 2008 with strengthening his connection to India.
He played for Rajasthan Royals, Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Chennai Super Kings during his IPL career.
Watson, now an assistant coach for Kolkata Knight Riders, also praised India’s vegetarian cuisine and development.
- Who
- Former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson.
- What
- Watson reflected on his connection with India and called it his “second home.”
- When
- He spoke at an event reported on August 20, held around India’s August 15 Independence Day celebrations.
- Where
- At Indian Independence Day celebrations organised by the Consulate of India in Sydney, Australia.
- Why
- The event celebrated India’s 80th Independence Day, while Watson discussed the support he received from Indian cricket fans and his long association with the country.
- Event
- Indian Independence Day celebrations organised by the Consulate of India in Sydney.
- Independence Day
- India’s 80th Independence Day was celebrated on August 15.
- Watson’s international career
- He played international cricket for Australia from 2002 to 2016.
- IPL connection
- Watson said the Indian Premier League’s arrival in 2008 strengthened his connection with India.
- Indian franchises
- He played for Rajasthan Royals, Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Chennai Super Kings.
- Current role
- Watson currently serves as assistant coach for Kolkata Knight Riders.
- Other comments
- He praised India’s vegetarian cuisine and said he feels fortunate to have witnessed the country’s development.