AITA likely to take some strong decisions while picking Davis Cup team

 The All India Tennis Association (AITA) is likely to take some strong decisions when it meets on Saturday to pick the team for the Davis Cup Asia-Oceania first round relegation play-off match against New Zealand to be played in Chandigarh from September 14-16.

The winner of the tie will stay in Group I in the region. The losing team will play another play-off match against Chinese Taipei.

The selection committee headed by Anil Dhupar is likely to look into various issues, including the players’ attitude before the Olympics.“The Olympic performance and attitude of the players will definitely be considered and the committee may even come out with some strong decisions,” a source said.

The row between the players ahead of the Olympic had left a bitter taste which was accentuated by their early exit in the Games.

It, however, will be interesting to see how the committee works out the doubles combination for the tie after the recent row. Paes was upset with the selection committee’ decision to  partner him with Vishnu Vardhan in the London Olympics after Mahesh Bhupathi had his way to team up with Rohan Bopanna.

The committee, however, is impressed with Vardhan and eager to include him in their scheme of things.

Somdev Devvarman, who returned to the circuit after over an eight month injury break at London Games, will be back to shoulder the responsibility in the singles along with Yuki Bhambri.