Jack Miller is looking to build on a strong start to the new MotoGP season after finishing eighth in the season-opening Qatar Grand Prix.

Miller started 16th by virtue of combined practice results after qualifying was washed out, and finished the opening lap of the Losail circuit in 10th.

The Australian battled with Scott Redding and Aleix Espargaro during the race, passing the chequered flag in eighth position thanks in part to falls from then-leader Johann Zarco and Andrea Iannone.

Following an injury plagued 2016 campaign, Miller is fully-fit and believes that the result is a positive sign for the year ahead.

“I’m really happy with how it went and I’ve felt strong all weekend,” said the Marc VDS Honda rider.

“I just didn’t really get chance to show it with the weather.”

Miller, who missed five races last year due to injury, was also unperturbed by a minor fall during practice.

“The small crash in FP1 really set us back on Thursday and then the weather pretty much dominated the next two days.

“What I’m happy about is that I could carry the momentum gained in the pre-season and I’ve felt better each time I’ve jumped on the bike.

“It’s a result both myself and the team can build on and I want to thank my guys because they gave me a really competitive package this weekend.”

Round 2, at Argentina’s Autodromo Termas de Rio Hondo, will be held from April 7-9.