Vijay to test fitness in league game

Vijay to test fitness in league game

India Test opener Murali Vijay will be back in action after being sidelined with a wrist injury for nearly four months. Vijay, who has been picked for the three-Test series against Sri Lanka later this month, will play his first competitive match on Thursday (July 13) when he represents Jolly Rovers against Young Stars in a TNCA first division league match at the SSN College.

"Yes, I will be playing the match. I'm looking forward to batting. My priority is to stay at the crease as long as possible and maybe score a big hundred as well," Vijay told TOI.

The 33-year-old right-handed batsman underwent a wrist surgery in the UK about two months back and had missed the IPL after the conclusion of the Australia series. Although Vijay did work on his general fitness under trainer Rajini in Chennai post-surgery, he hasn't had a proper hit with the bat in the nets till last week as the injury needed natural healing. Before heading to the National Cricket Academy (NCA) for medical assessment late last month, Vijay did mention in an interview to this newspaper that he had only four net sessions, which included a few basic drills and playing underarm stuff with tennis balls.

An NCA source mentioned that Vijay "did have a proper hit" in the nets during his recent NCA visit before he was picked for the Indian team. "Vijay faced proper fast bowling during a few net sessions and he looked fine," the source mentioned.

The wicket at the SSN could well give Vijay quality match practice as the track is known for its sporting nature with carry and movement. Vijay's form at the top will be vital for Virat Kohli & Co as they are set to play a series of overseas Tests.