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Sport - Racing : Motor

Gill for Japan leg

CHENNAI: Team MRF’s Gaurav Gill, who was out of action for four months with a knee injury, said he has recovered and will take part in the Japan leg of the Asia Pacific Rally Championship next week.

“It’s been a long break. I was involved in an accident two weeks before the New Caledonia leg and broke my knee. I went through surgery and rehabilitation, and feel fit and ready to rally in Japan. I will be driving a Mitsubishi Evo 9 which is a step above from last year,” said Gill at a press conference here on Thursday.

The 26-year-old, who test drove at Coimbatore on Wednesday, stressed the importance of understanding the car.

“I managed around 100 kms during testing. I will go through a two-day testing period in Japan before the rally begins, which should be enough to get into the groove.

“I’m looking at getting more miles, getting as many points as possible and driving a lot more to understand the car better,” he added.

John Mortimer, with more than 13 years’ experience in the Australian Rally Championship, will be his co-driver.

Gill was realistic about his podium chances in Japan, his first rally in months.

“I’m basically going to be looking at consistency in Japan. It will be pretty tricky there since it’s narrow and slippery. MRF has introduced new tyres, so we would be trying them out. I’m hoping for a podium finish in Indonesia. It will be hot and dusty there but I’m expecting a good performance.”

Good opportunity

The Malaysian leg in October, he said, would give him an opportunity to feature in a World Rally Championship set-up. — Sports Reporter

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