India superior on grass, says Davis Cup coach

Rohan Bopanna joined the camp on Monday while captain Leander Paes is expected to arrive on Tuesday.

Bopanna, nursing a knee inflammation, was restricted to a light session and was seen hitting just backhands and returns. “There is no point taking chances. That’s why we left him on one side of the court to hit some backhands and returns. Forehands and service require a lot of movement, so we did not want to push him hard,” Bal said.

“From tomorrow we will start intense session,” he added. The coach however ruled out serious problem with Bopanna’s knee.

“There is no problem whatsoever. Just for precautionary measures we have told him to start slow. Also it is very hot, humid and muggy,” Bal said.

Mahesh Bhupathi is unlikely to join the camp before Wednesday as he returns to the country tonight after losing the Miami Masters final. Meanwhile team manager S P Mishra said mood in the camp was good and players were practising hard.

“Players are seriously focused. They are practising hard. We have nothing to do with the past and we want them to stay focussed for this tie,” he said. Mishra believes India have a good chance to advance to World group Play-offs.

“India players have a better tennis aptitude on the grass. Chances are fair on the home surface. They are ranked higher than us but rankings do not matter in Davis Cup,” he said.

Dr Vece Paes, Leander’s father, said the recent players’ revolt had affected everyone. “It shook everyone up. We can only hope that everyone forgets that at least for this tie as we all are professionals. I think it would not affect Leander and Mahesh and let’s hope it does not affect the other three (players),” he said.