Fit-Again Ryan Harris Raring to go Against India
Ryan Harris has said that the Australian team, with Phillip Hughes in their thoughts, will go out to the middle on December 9 with the intention of beating India.
Australian fast bowler Ryan Harris said on Thursday, that he is both physically and mentally fit to make a comeback to the national squad, to play the first Test against India starting Dec 9.
Harris has vowed, the team will be maintaining their aggression when they turn out for the first Test at the Adelaide Oval. (Australia will hit India hard: Wasim Akram)
The bowler who joined compatriots at Phillip Hughes funeral on Wednesday in Macksville stated that the experience was indeed emotional which convinced him he was ready to play. (Also read: Michael Clarke's poignant eulogy for "little brother" Phillip Hughes)
Harris wrote in a Fairfax Media Column, which was published in Cricket Australia's website: "Seeing the green and gold streamers was a reminder these people want to see some cricket played, want to see us get out there and beat the Indians." (Hughes' funeral brings sense of closure, Australia focus on cricket again)
He also spoke about how the mood changed for the players after the funeral. (Shaun Marsh picked as cover for Michael Clarke)
There were conversations about getting back into the field, but he also believed Hughes would be at the back of their minds.
"We're going to have our mate in the back of our minds - there's no doubt about that - but when we walk out onto that ground we need to try and focus on our game thoughts, where we need to be to be ready to play," said the pacer.
"We'll definitely be maintaining our aggression; that's how we play well. That's what we do. That's the Australian way so we'll get back to doing that. It's what those people I walked past Wednesday in the procession would want, and what they would expect."
Harris, though, was unsure if Australia could field a full strength side, for the first Test, as most players have not picked up the ball or bat after the death of Hughes.
"I know some guys have really struggled -- some haven't even picked up a bat or ball yet since it happened. They're just not going to know, until they pick a bat or ball up, whether or not they're going to be capable of playing."
"I'm in good shape. I don't have any doubts about my fitness," he added on his fitness.