CHENNAIi: India’s ace doubles player Leander Paes may not feature in the Davis Cup World Group playoffs against Serbia to be held in Bangalore from September 12 to 14. According to sources, Paes is unlikely to play due to an impending case in the court. The 41-year-old is fighting for the custody of his eight-year-old daughter, Aiyana, with estranged partner Rhea Pillai. His custody petition next comes up for hearing on Monday.
Earlier, in January, Paes had announced his decision to take a break from national duty, citing personal reasons. He last played in a Davis Cup match against Indonesia in April 2013.
After India’s win over Korea in April, the veteran had said that “if there is a need for me, I am available.”
Interestingly, Paes has made himself available for the Asian Games to be held from September 19 to October 4. It starts just five days after the Davis Cup match against Serbia.
AITA selection committee chairman Anil Dhupar confirmed the news. “Yes, Paes is available for the Asian Games. A call on the team would be taken in the first week of August.” When asked about his availability for the Davis Cup, Dhupar said: “I don’t know. We will talk about it after the Asian Games team is announced.” AITA president Anil Khanna refused to comment.
Paes’s absence means India might retain the same squad that toured Korea. Many in the tennis circuit, including some selection committee members, had earlier expressed that it was time for the younger generation to take over. If they stick to their word, then we might get to see Paes for only one more time in the Davis Cup — in his farewell match.