Miller's Phillip Island practice speed not affected by injury

The Australian was in surgery just under three weeks ago for the break, which occurred during a trials bike trip in Andorra.

After being passed fit to ride on Thursday, he returned to MotoGP action for the first time on Friday, having opted to sit out the Motegi race to concentrate on being fit for his home GP.

It was a rapid return as well, the Marc VDS Honda rider going third quickest in FP1 with a 1m29.724s, before putting himself in the box seat for a Q2 spot with a 1m26.466s in FP2, which left him sixth.

While admitting there’s been some discomfort from his right leg, Miller said he’s confident that it’s not affecting his laptimes.

“I don't think it's affecting the laptimes at all, I only really notice it at Turn 4, into Turn , and from Turn 6 through seven and eight,” said Miller.

“It's just sort of picking the bum up from the seat and moving it across, that sort up and twist motion isn't the easiest.

"But I'm hoping because the muscles haven't been used for quite a while in the back on my left, that because today it was stiff, a bit sore, by tomorrow that should be even better.

“To be honest when I'm on the bike it doesn't really hurt,it's more when I get off the bike and straighten the leg back. That is tough. It shouldn't be any drama, I don't think – we'll see tomorrow.”

He also reckons he’ll be able to keep up the fight for a Q2 spot on Saturday should the forecasted rain not arrive.

“I’m very happy with the laptimes, consistently in the 29s this morning and then this afternoon again,” he added.

“And the position as well, I feel good out there. I feel comfortable since I went out on the bike this morning. The bike's working well, team is working really well and I'm working alright today so let's see what happens tomorrow.

“I mean, [1m]29.4s is no slouch lap that is for sure. And I didn't even put my sectors together so I am sure I've got some more pace up my sleeve, but no I'm really happy about today and I'm looking forward to tomorrow.

“We feel we can really push. Once we get the thing wound up and get going it seems to work really well, so I'm happy with the performance today.”