Bhuvneshwar ready for Tests

Bhuvneshwar Kumar*, one of the new faces in India's Test squad, has said he was hopeful of getting a call-up for the series against Australia. While Bhuvneshwar replaced Parvinder Awana as the third seamer in the 15-member squad, Dhawan replaced Gautam Gambhir.

"I would be lying if I say I was not hoping for this," Bhuvneshwar told Mumbai Mirror. "Having done well in the ODIs recently, I thought it would be the right time for me to have a go in the Tests as well."

Bhuvneshwar made his debut in a Twenty20 match against Pakistan last December and made an immediate impression with his swing. He returned with match figures of 3 for 9 and continued his good form in the ODIs where he regularly bowled 10-over long spells.

When asked if he was ready for Test cricket on Indian pitches, he said, "Having played five years of domestic cricket, I know what it takes to get wickets on Indian pitches. Test cricket won't be like the ODIs, but I'm ready for the challenge, mentally and physically."

Bhuvneshwar, who has taken 149 first-class wickets in 46 matches at an average of 26.02, said he would continue sticking to his strengths.

"I'm not overdoing things. I know my strength, which is swing and seam, and I will not try anything that would weaken my strong point."

* February 11 6.15pm GMT This story has been modified to focus on Bhuvneshwar Kuamr