Injured Australian all-rounder Shane Watson has not given up hope of playing some part in the Test series against India and is aiming to be fit for the third match in Perth, starting on January 13.
Watson is battling a calf injury but plans to return to running in a day or two with the hope that he might resume batting in the nets this week.
He is then hoping to be available for selection as a batsman -- he will not be ready to bowl -- for the third Test.
"It's been a bit of a slow process unfortunately. I'll start running tomorrow and build it up over the next week, and hopefully be fit and open to be picked as a batsman in Perth," Watson said.
"But that comes down to my fitness and also what the selectors think as well. Hopefully I'll start padding over the next couple of days as well," he was quoted as saying by Sydney Morning Herald.
Watson has not played since straining a hamstring during Australia's victory over South Africa in Johannesburg in November, with his return delayed by a calf injury. He has not batted in the nets for three weeks.
"I did not think it was probably going to take this long, but unfortunately I've had a couple of little setbacks along the way.
"It's been quite a frustrating time but I've just got to get through the other side of it and hopefully get back to playing very soon," he said.
