The Indian team is looking forward to Sachin Tendulkar's record 35th century in the first Test against Sri Lanka, starting in Chennai on Friday, said stylish middle-order batsman V V S Laxman.
"The mood in the dressing room is excellent. Each one of us are looking forward to the Test series, and Sachin reaching his milestone will be a great feeling for all of us," Laxman told reporters in Chennai on Wednesday.
On his own fitness, Laxman, who made his highest score of 281 in Kolkata in 2001 to lead India to a stunning victory against Australia, said, "I am looking forward to playing match-winning knocks.
"Preparation has been quite good. Luckily, I had a good tour to Zimbabwe and then had played in Challenger Trophy and one match in Duleep Trophy. Unfortunately, I did not get to play more matches. I have been training with the Hyderabad Ranji team," he said.
On playing against Muttiah Muralitharan, Laxman said, "It is highly challenging to play Murali in one-dayers. I have never played him in Test matches. I have practised certain ways to tackle him. Hopefully, everything will click."
He said he started the season on a good note and there will be lot of opportunities for him in Tests.
"Important tours are coming up. After our tour to Pakistan, England is coming to India and we will tour the West Indies," he said adding "I am looking forward to start off well against the Sri Lankans."
On his future, Laxman said: "I am looking at it match by match. I have always given one hundred per cent ... each time I was given the chance."
About the weather threatening to play spoilsport once again, he said, "We are professional cricketers and need to perform whatever the conditions be or circumstances."
On the wicket for the match, he said, "The wicket looks good. As the match progresses, it will definitely turn.
"Chepauk has always been a good and sporting wicket. If the bowler bends his back, he will surely get assistance."
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