Having proved himself in overseas conditions, India batsman Hanuma Vihari could t be more excited to play his first Test at home with series against South Africa beginning in Visakhapatnam on October 2. Hanuma Vihari, who me his debut in England in September last year, has played six Tests but all out of India. He avers 45.60 and scored his maiden ton in previous away series against West Indies.  "First time, I will be playing international in India for India. It is very exciting. That too in Vizag, my home association. I am looking forward to it," he said here on Thursday. middle-order batsman was speaking on sidelines of a felicitation function organized for him on by his alma mater St. John's Sports Coaching Foundation.

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Hanuma Vihari gears up for Proteas Test

Hanuma Vihari said he has been preparing for South Africa series at National Cricket Acemy in Bengaluru. "Last 15 days, I have been at NCA. I have been preparing well for South African series," he said. Asked if he would confine himself to Tests, Hanuma Vihari said it is t in his hands and that he is rey to play in all formats given a chance. Team India fielding coach R Sridhar was also felicitated on occasion.

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VVS Laxman credits Vihari for determination

Veteran cricketer VVS Laxman, who is also an alumnus of St. John's Sports Coaching Foundation, was present too. Speaking at event, Hanuma Vihari said he was happy that Sridhar, who h trained him since his younger days, was present in dressing room when he scored his maiden hundred. "Obviously, it was very fitting that Sridhar sir was re in dressing room when I got my first hundred. I can only imagine how emotional he was and it was a special day. Obviously, he was re throughout, starting of my career to till w, he was always re. As I said, it is very fitting that he was re in dressing room, Hanuma Vihari said. Laxman appreciated Hanuma Vihari for determination shown as a young cricketer and Sridhar for his stellar contribution to Indian team. 

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