A fit Samit Patel braced for action

Having overcome fitness problems which kept him out of England team for two-and-a-half years, Samit Rohit Patel is raring to go in the five-match one-day series against India beginning here Oct 14.

Having overcome fitness problems which kept him out of England team for two-and-a-half years, Samit Rohit Patel is raring to go in the five-match one-day series against India beginning here Oct 14.

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The English cricketer of Indian descent, who was out of action till recently despite making his international debut in 2008, is hopeful of a fresh start in India, where conditions may suit the left-arm spinner.

The 26-year-old, however, is aware of the competition he faces to cement his place in the team, which is attracting huge talent. "Competition is very good in England. It is good for English cricket that we have lot of competition. Hopefully, I should start well and carry on," said Patel, who traces his Indian roots to Gujarat.

He is looking forward to bowl alongside Graeme Swann, whom he described as the best spinner. Patel, however, knows it is not going to be easy for him.

"Following the comments by Mr Srinivasan (BCCI president) on September 20 in relation to Hot Spot and the DRS process, BBG Sports believed it did not have the support of the BCCI and promptly decided not to bring the Hot Spot to India for their upcoming series," said Brennan.