Veteran opener Murali Vijay is all set to return to competitive cricket after a gap of almost two years. He would return to action with the Ruby Trichy Warriors in the upcoming TNPL season, slated to get underway on June 23.

Speaking on his hiatus, Vijay said a combination of injuries and troubles in personal life kept him away from the game over the past 24 months.

"I wanted to play but I had a few injuries. Also my personal life was going through a fast pace and I wanted to slow it down. I wanted to see where as an individual I am standing, and that’s why I felt the break at that point of time was required. Luckily, TNCA has been very supportive and they understood my situation and have given me the platform (via TNPL) to come back and play," quoted Vijay while speaking at a TNCA event on Saturday (June 18).

Murali Vijay, who last featured competitively in the IPL 2020, is keen to hit the ground running.

"I am very excited to be playing this season of the TNPL. I am enjoying cricket, feeling fit and looking to play the game for as long as possible," he said.

Vijay’s last appearance for India was way back in 2018-19 during the Australia tour. At 38, the classy right-hander isn’t setting any goals and looking to enjoy his time in the middle.

"I don't have any aims at the moment. I just want to enjoy this space of my life and see where it takes me," said the veteran of 61 Tests, 17 ODIs and 9 T20Is.

"TNPL is a gift for Tamil Nadu cricket. I am keen to go out and perform. I also want to make use of this opportunity to rub shoulders with the youngsters and help them to realise their potential," he concluded.

(With TOI inputs)