Former Australia cricketer Shane Watson has penned a two-year contract extension with Sydney Thunder. He was also roped in by the Karachians last month for the T10 Cricket League.

Watson has attracted a great deal of attention since guiding Chennai Super Kings to their third IPL triumph. He smashed two centuries in the tournament, one of which came in the final match.

“It’s exciting to be able to get a few more years with the Thunder,” said Watson. “It was nice to be able to contribute last season as well as throughout the PSL (Pakistan Super League) and IPL.

“Part of Sydney Thunder is developing the next generation of Australian cricketers. We’ve got a lot of young talent, and the squad will be younger next season.”

The 37-year-old also wants to see the banned pair Steve Smith and David Warner play in the Big Bash League this year. Both of them are currently serving a 12-month ban from Cricket Australia for ball-tampering. According to Watson, the duo should promote BBL instead of promoting other tournaments.

Smith has made a return to the competitive arena as he featured in the opening match of the Global T20 Canada. Warner will also play for the Winnipeg Hawks in the same tournament.

“The thing that just disappoints me about the whole situation is now Steve Smith and Dave Warner are over promoting other tournaments by playing in them.

“I understand the rulings that happened at Cricket Australia, the 12-month bans and all the stipulations they put around that. But for them to have the opportunity to go and promote other tournaments, I’d prefer if they’re going to do that and have access to do that they have access to promote the Big Bash, for example.