Kaif declares himself fit to tour Pakistan

Mohammad Kaif is keen to grab the opportunity of touring Pakistan © AFP

Mohammad Kaif has declared himself fit to tour Pakistan. Kaif, who was been out of action since damaging a thumb playing for India A in the Kenstar Tournament in December, has said "I started batting in the nets two days ago. There are no problems and I feel no discomfort."

Kaif's return to fitness is especially relevant as India's tour of Pakistan begins with a five one-day series. The Indian team to tour Pakistan will be selected on March 3. Although Kaif made his India debut in a Test match he has since become a regular in the one-day side. He has played only three Test matches after the first one against South Africa in 2000 while appearing in 59 ODIs.

Kaif's return to fitness cannot be good news for the likes of Hemang Badani and Rohan Gavaskar, who had only reasonable success in the recently completed VB Series in Australia.