Vijay targets July comeback

Time spent away from the cricketing arena is enabling M. Vijay freshen his mind before he attempts a comeback from a ‘forced’ injury break. The ‘stage-by-stage’ recovery from a major fitness concern can be rather frustrating but the Indian opener wants to look at the brighter side. Vijay, who was operated on his wrist in London during April, says he has been able to spend quality time with his family. This in itself is a luxury for the modern-day cricketer given the demands made by the hectic travelling and scheduling of games. Even as his bearded visage glowed under the evening sun, the casually attired Vijay seemed relaxed as he shared his thoughts on the sidelines of the ceremony to rename the IIT-Chemplast ground as the K.S. Narayanan Centre for Cricketing Excellence here on Tuesday. He said, “I have been able to be a better father, see my son and daughter grow up, and be at home a lot more.” Primary focus Of course, cricket remains his primary focus. “I want to be back practising in June and hopefully I will be able to play a few TNCA first division matches. I have not started batting yet.” Vijay has targeted a return to the Indian Test team for the campaign in Sri Lanka, beginning late July. “I should be alright by then, the doctors are optimistic.” Asked about the lacklustre form of his India skipper Virat Kohli in the IPL, Vijay replied, “He has got so many runs in his past, his contribution to the Indian team and his franchise has been outstanding. Kohli should be given the space to find his form, he should not be trolled.” He added, “Every cricketer goes through hiccups like this. I would say the same thing about M.S. Dhoni too. These cricketers have contributed so much. You have to give them some leeway.” Of course, Vijay is “disappointed” at missing all the action from the IPL this season. “It is a fantastic tournament and it is tough to be sitting out. I have been following the matches of my franchise Kings XI Punjab and still believe the side can go on to triumph in the competition.” India, he said, had the team to win the ICC Champions Trophy again. In the rough ride that a cricketing journey is, Vijay has a precious quality — mental toughness. He should be back soon.