India fancies chances as
underdogs: Krishnan

Admitting that Australia are the "overwhelming favourites" for the Davis Cup relegation tie against India later this month, non-playing captain Ramesh Krishnan said his side will have to prepare well to emerge victorious.

Krishnan said although Australia, with the likes of world number one Lleyton Hewitt in their ranks, will be tough to beat in the singles matches, India have a better chance of winning at least the doubles.

"All along the doubles has been our chance. With Mahesh [Bhupathi] unfit to play, it gives a new twist. We also have to look at [Leander] Paes against their second player, given his track record in the Davis Cup," he said, in Chennai, on Monday.

Krishnan said now that Mark Philippousis has been ruled out of the match after sustaining an injury during a first round match at the US Open, India fancies its chances as "underdogs".

"With Hewitt and Phil we would have have to concede four singles. But we should not dwell on their [Australia's] misfortune. It's a bit of an advantage to be an underdog. There is no pressure on you and you can perform freely."

Asked if the services of Bhupathi, who won the US doubles crown partnering Max Mirnyi of Belarus, would be sought, he said the All India Tennis Association has asked the player to be in Adelaide, where India plays the World Group qualifying match from September 20 to 22.

"Why decide so early? Hopefully, his shoulder will heal. Even with minimum preparation he can strike a win for us with Leander."

The former Indian Davis Cup star rated Bhupathi, who has won the doubles title at every Grand Slam except the Australian Open, as one of the world's best in the business.

On Paes's sterling performances in the Davis Cup over the years, Krishnan said Paes has been doing yeoman service for the country for the past 12 to 13 years.

"His record stands by itself. Among the current Davis Cup players, he has won the maximum number of Davis Cup ties. We are proud of that."

On rookies Harsh Mankad, Sunil Kumar Sipaeya and Rohan Bopanna, who have been selected for the match, Krishnan said the youngsters were chosen on the basis of their performances in recent tournaments and have the potential of performing in the international arena.

"They have to be fitted in. Whoever is rising, we will have to back them up. We have to look ahead after Paes and Mahesh."

Though Krishnan said one of these would get to play the singles, he refused to name the player.

"But it is not fair at this point to comment on that. They have equal chances. I have not made up my mind this early, as the match is only on September 20."

He said the players would have to graduate to higher level tournaments.

"They are at present playing at the Futures level, winning some matches and getting some points. You need higher ranking. It is a vicious circle. Hopefully, the next step is to use these points to go to a higher level."

Also read:
We just wanted to win: Bhupathi