India's top ranked player Somdev Devvarman and number two Prakash Amritraj have been awarded wildcards for the men's singles main draw at the $ 450,000 ATP Chennai Open to be held at the SDAT, Nungambakkam Stadium, from January 5-11 next year.
Somdev is ranked 201 in the world while Prakash is three places behind at 204.
The third wild card went to Czech Republic's Lukas Dlouhy who will be making his first appearance at Chennai Open.
Dlouhy will also be partnering Leander Paes [Images] in doubles.
"I am happy and very excited to participate for the first time at the Chennai Open. I was hoping to participate this time. I will put my 100 per cent at the tournament and try and win some matches. It is a good opportunity for me to showcase my talent in front of some tennis greats," said 23-year-old Somdev, the reigning and two-time NCAA men's singles champion.
Prakash too was elated after he was handed the wildcard.
"I am delighted to be given an opportunity once again to participate at Chennai Open. I have always performed well at the tournament, it is more of a home-coming of sorts.
"Undoubtedly, this year's field is quite challenging and I am looking forward to give my best playing alongside Davydenko, Wawrinka, Moya and others. I hope to give my best performance," said the 25-year-old.
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