Left-arm fast bowler Ashish Nehra, who missed the Challenger series because of an old ankle injury, is confident of regaining full fitness in time for the two-Test series against New Zealand, starting on October 8.

Speaking to rediff.com on Sunday, he said his ankle is much better and though he will miss the Irani Trophy match, to be played between Ranji champions Mumbai and Rest of India later this month, it will be fine by the time the New Zealand series begins.

"We will have to watch how my injury heals, but I am sure to be fit for the series against New Zealand," he said, dismissing reports that he has been ruled out of the upcoming series.

Board of Control for Cricket in India secretary S K Nair had, earlier on Sunday, said Nehra is doubtful for the two-match Test series because of the injury he is carrying but could be fit for the for the triangular one-day tournament that follows.

Selection Committee chairman Brijesh Patel also feels Nehra will not be fit in time for the Test series. "According to Leipus, Nehra is not fit to take part in the Test series against New Zealand," he said.

Nehra has been undergoing a vigorous rehabilitation program since ungergoing surgery on his ankle in April following the injury he sustained during the World Cup in South Africa, and only started bowling in the nets since the past few days.