Australia call-up a new year gift: VRV

Describing his unexpected call-up for the Australian tour as a pleasant new year gift, VRV Singh on Wednesday said he is familiar with the conditions Down Under and would fall back on his knowledge to deliver the goods.

"I was in Australia two years back and have some knowledge about the nature of pitches there. I will play according to my strength and bowl according to the nature of the wicket. I hope to perform and do well," VRV told PTI.

VRV will fly to Australia as a replacement for India's pace spearhead Zaheer Khan who has been ruled out for the rest of the tour due to a heel injury.

The Punjab pacer said he would make the most of the opportunity and approach the game with a clear mind.

"You never expect such a call mid-way through the tour. It has been like a godsend opportunity, I will go there and try to bowl really well," said the 23-year-old who made his Test debut in 2006.

Asked whether he would be under any pressure to perform as Australia have already taken a 1-0 lead in the Test series, VRV said, "I am not going to take any kind of pressure."

"I am not going there worrying about what has happened in the past. My focus will be on playing my natural game and bowling well," said VRV, who had an impressive outing in the last Ranji match against Orissa, claiming five wickets in an innings including a hat-trick.

Punjab's Ranji coach Gurcharan Singh was happy about the tall pacer getting a call-up.

"I am happy for him. He is a very good bowler and has been in terrific rhythm recently. We expect him to do well," Gurcharan said.