Hardik Pandya, who was kept out of the T20I and Test squads for Australia, said that he is eyeing a comeback in the ODI series, which is set to begin on January 12 in Sydney.
Hardik is currently recovering from a lower-back injury which he suffered during the Asia Cup in UAE earlier this year. The all-rounder, who has become an integral part of the Indian team, however, has started the recovery process and is looking to return to the side for the three ODIs Down Under.
"I'm trying hard to be fit for the ODI series against Australia to start in January 2019. To get back to full fitness, I'm going through rigorous bowling sessions in Mumbai. I have just started bowling after 60 days. Once I bowl a few overs in the ODIs, I think I should be on the right track," Hardik said on the sidelines of an event in the city.
Pandya also posted videos of him on Twitter, where he can be seen practicing batting and bowling in the nets.
The 25-year-old also backed India to do well in Australia despite the home side being a tough nut to crack in their own backyard.
"We are a formidable side and we should give a good fight to Australia who I believe are very strong in their own backyard. I am hoping for an exciting series," he said.
Hardik also expressed his joy at his elder brother Krunal playing for India in Australia.
"I'm very happy to see Krunal representing the country Down Under," said Hardik.
Krunal, who played all the three T20Is against West Indies, is likely to feature in the first T20I at the Gabba in Brisbane on Wednesday.
