 | « Back to article | Print this article |
Indonesian team is expecting a miracle to pull off a victory against a full-strength India in the Davis Cup Asia/Oceania Group I relegation tie to be played under lights from April 5 to 7 at KSLTA Stadium in Bangalore.
"The Indian team look strong, particularly after the return of their main players, but we still are confident because anything can happen in the court. We will do our best to give a fight to the Indian contingent," Indonesia's non-playing captain Hendri Susilo Pramono told reporters.
Pramono said the team has not yet decided on who would play singles and doubles, however would take a call an hour before the draw.
Top Indonesian player Christopher Rungkat said he has been used to carry the pressure and responsibility of the team on his shoulders, especially being No. 1 player for the country in Davis Cup for last two years.
"The team is expecting from me to perform. I cannot say. I will give my best," he said.
Talking about the courts at the KSLTA, Rungkat said the courts are pretty bouncy which suited his style of play.
"I had a hit at the ball yesterday on the courts and they are pretty good," he said.
Rungkat said there would pressure while playing Yuki Bhambri as he had a very close game last year in the Challengers match in Singapore.
"Whenever we played each other, the goings had been tough. In this Davis Cup too, I am expecting the same," he said.
Rungkat also said he is also looking forward towards facing Sanam Singh in the tie.
He said that it has been exciting to be in Bangalore for its attractive tourist value, hospitality, clubs and food served. "I have totally enjoyed my stay here," he said.
Rungkat said he has played four tournaments in India last year.
He said though Indonesia is a badminton-crazy nation, he preferred tennis because of the family background.
"My mom was a tennis player and played Fed Cup. I love the sport and have passion for it," he said.
Photograph: Julian Finney/Getty Images