Batsman Gautam Gambhir on Friday sounded optimistic about retaining his place in the Indian side and even earning a Test cap during the home series against New Zealand in October.
Gambhir, one of the most prolific batsmen in the last Ranji season, got his first international break when he was selected for the tri-series in Dhaka, which featured India, Bangladesh and South Africa.
"I have come up with some good performances this season and I am quite happy with that. I am keeping my fingers crossed and hoping for the best," Gambhir said in New Delhi.
The 22-year-old Delhi batsman was the highest scorer in last year's Ranji Trophy with 833 runs from eight matches at an outstanding average of almost 76.
He also played a crucial role in Delhi's run to the semi-finals of the competition, where it lost to Tamil Nadu.
"It was a very satisfying season for me as a batsman. I am confident of doing well at the highest level."
India are still on the look out for a regular opener. Middle-order batsmen Sanjay Bangar and Virendra Sehwag were used as openers during the series against West Indies and on the tour of New Zealand in the absence of an accomplished opening pair.
Having a fine technique and solid temperament, Gambhir, who regularly opens for Delhi, can provide a solution.
"The decision rests with the selectors. I had to play really well to draw their attention. I think whatever decision they make will be in the larger interest of the team," said Gambhir, who termed the double century he made for Board President's XI against a touring Zimbabwe side last year as the 'defining moment' of his career.
He said though he was quite happy with his man-of-the-match performance against Bangladesh in the Dhaka tri-series, he needed to be more consistent.
"It is very hard to get a break and equally difficult to maintain your position in the side," Gambhir, who scored 71 in that match, said.
"Though getting a man-of-the-match playing for India is a big honour, I need to convert my starts into big scores.
"I can bat comfortably at any position. So it hardly matters whether I open the innings or not. I am also ready to play attacking cricket if the situation demands," said Gambhir, who opened the innings for India in Dhaka in the absence of the injured Sachin Tendulkar.
