Scotland's Mark Watt to Continue Controversial 24-Yard Variation Against Australia

Mark Watt, Scotland's left-arm spinner, will continue to employ his unconventional 24-yard variation against Australia on Saturday, despite facing controversy in the match against Oman. Watt's unique delivery, which involves bowling from behind the bowling crease, has proven effective in disrupting batters.

During Scotland's victory over Oman, umpire Chris Brown twice called "dead ball" when Watt bowled from 24 yards, as batter Khalid Kail backed away. Watt and captain Richie Berrington questioned the decision, suggesting Kail was intentionally backing away.

Despite the confusion, Watt remains undeterred and will continue to use his variation against Australia. "He will be doing it again," said allrounder Michael Leask. "It's almost the element of surprise... It's also how good he is at holding his length."

Australia is aware of Watt's tactics, with vice-captain Matthew Wade acknowledging its cleverness. "I've just got to make sure I don't pull away when he does it this time," Wade said.

The incident highlights the importance of pre-match analysis, as teams now routinely study opponents' unusual tactics. "You've got to do a little bit of research before the game to see what you're getting," Wade said.

Scotland's must-win match against Australia has added significance, as England's victory over Oman has eliminated the possibility of Australia colluding with Scotland to advance on net run-rate. "We're just going to go out and play the game of cricket and see what happens," Wade said.

Scotland, meanwhile, is confident in its ability to challenge Australia. "It's a hell of an opportunity for us to go and play really good cricket and take on one of the best [teams] in the world," Leask said.

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