India vs Australia: Confident Murali Vijaya 'ready to open' in Tests

Vijay added 109 runs with K L Rahul, who scored a fluent 62, and belied the dressing room's concerns over the opening combination after youngster Prithvi Shaw was injured while fielding on day three.

India’s four-day practice match against Cricket Australia XI may have ended in a draw but the visitors would be delighted with the terrific return of opener Murali Vijay. The 34-year-old batsman scored a magnificent century in the second innings of the practice match after he opened the innings with KL Rahul in place of injured Prithvi Shaw.

Vijay scored 129 off 132 balls; racing from 52 to the three-figure mark in the space of 27 balls, including taking 26 runs off one over. He stated that he will fancy his chances on the bouncier Australian wickets, which favour his backfoot game.

“It was good to get some practice hitting over the boundary. I just took my chances and it came my way. I know opportunities are around the corner and wanted to be in a positive frame of mind. I have been working hard on my game and fitness, and I am looking forward to contributing in this series. Hopefully, I can do that," Vijay said.

Vijay added 109 runs with K L Rahul, who scored a fluent 62, and belied the dressing room's concerns over the opening combination after youngster Prithvi Shaw was injured while fielding on day three.

“Basically I am ready (after playing county cricket, tour matches in New Zealand and Australia). I just want to go out there, contribute and give a good start for my team. I have always been aiming at that and nothing is different this time,” he added.

The seasoned opener said that he was looking forward to playing Test cricket in Australia again, especially after enjoying a good series here in 2014.

“We (Rahul and him) come from the same part of India so we understand each other well. He is a good guy to bat with and he is fun. Hopefully, we can carry that momentum forward into the first Test.

The bouncier Australia pitches work to his advantage as he likes to play on the backfoot.

“Playing in Australia suits my game because I am a batsman who likes to play on the backfoot. Australia is the one place you get the bounce so you can play your shots coming from India and exploring shots that you have kept in your kit. I can get them out,” Vijay said.