By IANS
London : Hyderabad batsman V.V.S. Laxman is desperate for a place in India's Test team to face England in July, insisting he is ready to score runs when called upon.
Laxman faces a battle to make the starting line-up when the first Test commences on July 19.
The unorthodox right-hander has not featured in the playing eleven since January despite hitting two fifties in the tour of South Africa, as his place has come under threat from Yuvraj Singh, who guided India to a one-day series victory over the same opposition at the end of June.
Laxman's last Test visit to England saw him compile 199 runs at an average of 39.80, and he admits he is desperate to be given another shot in England.
"It was frustrating because I thought I did reasonably well in South Africa but then the situation was such that the team management had to take a call on five bowlers," the 32-year-old told an English website.
"In a team game someone misses out and it was unfortunate that I did in Bangladesh. It is quite disappointing honestly, but it is not in my control.
"What's in my control is to go out and get runs whenever I'm given a chance. I'll be focusing on that.
"I'm quite experienced in these things, so I'll go out there with a positive mindset."
Team India is preparing to meet an England side buoyant after a 3-0 Test series win over the West Indies.
Laxman is confident India will not suffer the same fate, although he admitted his men would have to be wary of spinner Monty Panesar.
"He has definitely improved a lot," he said. "It is the manner in which he is getting wickets, not just the numbers.
"Playing in England is special. I firmly believe we can win the series this time around."