How have you handled the disappointment of sitting out for almost a year due to injury?

Injuries can happen to anyone, fast bowling is not an easy job. Yes, I have been unlucky to break down a few times. But over the last one year, I have learnt how to handle these kind of situations, I have tried to be positive and always optimistic about my comeback chances. But having said that, it’s obviously very disappointing that I missed out on a lot of action in past few months.

In your absence, Team India has developed a quality pace battery, and more are waiting in the wings. Does that make you insecure?

No. Obviously, they have done well. Sreesanth and Munaf have had good success but you shouldn’t forget that I am out because of injury. I was not dropped from the team due to bad performance. So, when I return to a level playing field with them, maybe during the Challengers next month, it will be a good time to take a call on who’s the best.

So you expect to find a place in the team once you prove your match fitness?

Look, I can’t just walk into the side, neither can the selectors drop anyone just because I am now fit. I have been India’s best bowler for two seasons, I have been consistent in all the series that I have played and I am still India’s fastest bowler. I have experience on my side and I have done well, especially in the death overs, so if the selectors think I am back to my best, there’s no reason why I shouldn’t get my place back. It’s another thing if the selectors don’t want me, in that case I am happy playing for Delhi.

... contd.