JOIN USDoubles exponent Leander Paes is all set to play for India in the crucial World Group play-off tie against Serbia in Bangalore from September 12 to 14.
Paes was not part of the tie after he excused himself from the national duty for 2014 citing personal reasons. He later declared himself available for the Asian Games.
It has now been learnt that Rohan Bopanna initiated talks with Leander to be the part of the tie. After Leander gave his consent, Davis Cup captain Anand Amritraj got in touch with him. The two are expected to finalise things when Leander reaches Mumbai on Sunday.
“Rohan told me that Leander was interested after which I spoke to him. The last we spoke was about 10 days ago and Leander was willing to play the tie. We decided to have a final chat when he reaches Mumbai,” Amritraj told Deccan Herald. “Leander’s experience is invaluable and his presence will make a big difference against a big team like Serbia.”
The All India Tennis Association (AITA) admitted that talks had been going on for some time with Leander, but said it was yet to receive an official confirmation on the matter. “It is 99 percent sure that Leander will play and we have no problem with that. It will be good for the team. But a confirmation can only be given when Anand speaks to him tomorrow. We have left the two of them to decide on the topic,” AITA secretary-general Bharat Oza said.
Meanwhile, a source close to Leander confirmed that the stalwart has made up his mind to feature in the tie. His presence means Saketh Myneni, who had partnered Bopanna in the previous ties, will have to make way for him. Somdev Devvarman and Yuki Bhambri will be playing the singles.
However, Leander’s presence in the Asian Games is now highly unlikely. Oza, though, insisted, the matter was still open. “We are speaking to both Leander and Rohan on the matter. But nothing has been decided. So far, the only official statement we have got is from Somdev that he is not participating in the Asian Games,” Oza said.