Mumbai opener Wasim Jaffer says his selection to the Indian team for the third Test against Sri Lanka came as a pleasant surprise to him.
"I was expecting a call, but not so soon," the 27-year old told reporters in Ahmedabad on Friday.
He is, no doubt, eager to play.
"It's a challenge to face the likes of Muttiah Muralitharan and Chaminda Vaas. I just hope that I get a chance to play," he said.
But the chances of Jaffer, who was included in the side in place of deposed India captain Sourav Ganguly, figuring in the playing eleven are slim
If Virender Sehwag returns to the team and Gautam Gambhir is persisted with, as per the youth-grooming policy of the BCCI, he stands little chance.
He is however confident that, after a good showing in the domestic season, if given the chance he will deliver.
"I had a good start to the season. This year I have done well in both Ranji Trophy and Duleep Trophy and I am feeling good. I hope to carry on this form to international cricket," Jaffer said.
"I knew India would look for three openers for their tour of Pakistan, so I thought I had a chance," he added.
Jaffer has played seven Tests for India, scoring 261 runs at 20.07, but was twice given the boot, first against South Africa in February 2000 and then against England, in August 2002.
But the right-hander says this time he is well-prepared and will try and rectify his earlier mistakes.
"Last time I was not consistent. I played a few good knocks, but was not consistent enough. But this time I will stress on consistency."
He felt that playing domestic cricket helped him improve his game.
"When you play domestic cricket, you learn a lot and it makes you mature. Also, I am playing club cricket in England, which has helped me to work on my game."
