Time is running out for Manoj Tiwary. The Bengal batsman, whose stop-start international career has been marred with injuries, is now desperate to find a permanent place in the Indian side.

And for that to happen, he is ready to bat at any position, even if it means opening in Test cricket.

"I'm ready to bat anywhere my team wants to. I don't mind opening the batting in Tests either. Playing against the new ball will be an issue, but I'll work that out," a confident Tiwary said after scoring a superb 129 against the Australians on Sunday.

Tiwary's only international century has come batting as an opener in an ODI against West Indies in Chennai. He has been a consistent performer for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy, yet he has labelled as an ODI specialist. "It does feel bad at times because I have scored runs in every format, but that's how it is. I hope the people concerned will take note and I will get my chance," the 27-year-old said.

There were a couple of occasions on Saturday when Tiwary was bothered by the short delivery bowled by Peter Siddle. When reminded of it, the feisty cricketer shrugged it off. "Look at the runs on the board. I know how to score and I don't mind if it comes ugly," Tiwary shot back.

Tiwary didn't mind criticizing the Australian approach as well, trying to play a few mind games. "I think they batted pretty poorly on Sunday. They were not sure of their defensive strategy and if they are going to play this way, our Indian spinners will run through them in the Tests," Tiwary said, throwing a challenge at the Aussies.


Manoj Tiwary More stills


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