India Vs Sri Lanka Test: I am disappointed to miss out on century, says Abhinav Mukund

Galle, July 29: Indian opener Abhinav Mukund had mixed feelings after scoring 81 runs against Sri Lanka in the 1st Test here on Friday (July 28).

The Tamil Nadu left-hander, who came into the match only because of KL Rahul's absence due to viral fever, was out cheaply (12) in the first innings but made it count in the second essay on the 3rd day as India piled on the runs.

Abhinav Mukund celebrates his half century against Sri Lanka in Galle

The 27-year-old said he was happy to be back in the Indian team but expressed disappointment for failing to get to his maiden Test hundred.

"I have had a decent day, but I am disappointed to get out on 81. After that 49 at Lord's (against England in July 2011), I had a lot of time to think about my career. I had six years to think about it and don't want to talk about it. I wasn't part of any team. There was a time when I was dropped from my own first-class team. To have this opportunity to be a part of the Indian team is such a huge bonus. I take every game as an opportunity, that's all," Mukund said after the day's play.

"I have gone through my ups and downs, and that is a long time back. I don't even want to get there. I am happy I am back in the squad. I am disappointed I didn't get to three figures today, but I am happy to be out in the middle for India," he added.

Mukund made his Test debut in 2011 against West Indies. But since then he has played in only 7 Tests including the ongoing match in the island nation. He has featured in the five-day format after a gap of 6 years.

With Rahul set to return to the Playing XI for the 2nd Test from August 3, Mukund said he is not worried about losing his spot.

He said, "I don't want to think ahead to the next Test. Being the first-choice opener or second-choice opener doesn't make a difference. When you get a chance in the middle, I want to capitalise on it. I have the opportunity to do something in this Test and want to give it all."

India set a 550-run target for Sri Lanka after captain Virat Kohli scored an unbeaten century (103) on the 4th day today (July 29).

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