CHENNAI: India seem to have overcome withdrawal symptoms, at least for the time being. After doubts over the participation of some of the top players in the Asian Games, the country’s tennis fraternity heaved a sigh relief when veteran doubles specialist Leander Paes made himself available for India’s Davis Cup World Group playoffs against Serbia in the coming week.
The 41-year-old will partner Rohan Bopanna in Bangalore, which means Saketh Myneni – who was part of the original squad – will be a reserve. The last time Paes played in Davis Cup was also in Bangalore when India routed Indonesia 5-0 in relegation playoffs in April 2013. Ironically, it was Bopanna who approached Paes this time. The duo have had differences in opinion earlier when Bopanna refused to partner Paes in the 2012 Olympics. They last played together in April 2012 against Uzbekistan and lost in four sets.
India captain Anand Amritraj confirmed the news. “Yes, it was Rohan who first spoke to Leander and then I got in touch with him. Leander confirmed yesterday (Saturday) that he would be playing. He will be joining the team on Tuesday. He is currently in New York,” Amritraj told TNIE.
The skipper said that he had spoken to Saketh and he took it in the right spirit. “I feel bad for Saketh for he has done well in the past. But I had to take this call. Having Leander on the side will be a huge boost for us. He brings in a lot of experience with him and there will also be this intimidation factor. It does change the equation a bit for we will have two very experienced players playing doubles for us.”
Bopanna said it was a “pleasure to play” alongside Paes. “We have been in discussion for the past few months and were looking for the opportunity to play together for the country. I am confident that we will be a formidable team.”