India count on Paes’ Davis Cup record

Paes promptly took to the courts and had two practice sessions during the day. “I want to make sure the guys are ready and are really motivated,” Paes said.

Coming into the Davis Cup tie after dismal performances on the ATP Tour, the latest being his second round loss in the ATP Masters event in Key Biscayne, Florida, Paes was confident he would peak at the right time.

“I really enjoy playing Davis Cup. It’s 11 years now and still an encounter like this energises me. Whenever I play with the country’s flag on my chest it’s a proud moment for me," Paes said.

Paes said the Koreans – who have won three of the last four Cup ties against India – had always been tough rivals.

The Korean team led by Asian Games singles gold medallist Hyung Taek Lee and Yoon Yong-Il arrived late on Sunday and will get a feel of the Delhi heat from Monday.

Paes praised non-playing captain Ramesh Krishnan’s way of working with the team. “The team is like one unit and we listen to him for any advice. He keeps us busy and is very methodical,” Paes said of his former senior teammate.

India, who have included young Vishal Uppal in place of teenaged National hardcourt champion Sunil Kumar in the only change from the Lucknow tie, are still working on finding the right doubles pairing.

“We will decide about it may be on Thursday, but we have time till Saturday. We may even wait for the outcome of the first two singles and then decide,” Krishnan said.

“Vishal is a good team-man and a joker in the pack,” Paes said hinting he would like to try him out as his partner.

“Whoever I have to play with, I will try and win the doubles to ease the pressure,” he said.