Home Advantage Essential for Developing Future Davis Cup Stars, Says Rohit Rajpal
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Synopsis
India’s Davis Cup captain Rohit Rajpal emphasizes the significance of a home tie for shaping future stars. The upcoming tie against Togo is seen as an invaluable opportunity for player development, enabling the team to leverage home support and conditions effectively.
Key Takeaways
- Home ties are vital for player development.
- India's squad for the tie includes Sasikumar Mukund, the highest-ranked player.
- Preparation for the tie begins on January 23.
- The DLTA Complex is being enhanced for the event.
- Young players are being integrated into the squad for experience.
New Delhi, Jan 22 (NationPress) There is no greater advantage than a home tie for nurturing the next generation of Davis Cup champions. The forthcoming match against Togo presents an excellent chance for this, as stated by India's Davis Cup captain Rohit Rajpal.
The Indian Davis Cup team, set to compete on February 1-2, includes five players: Sasikumar Mukund, Ramkumar Ramanathan, Karan Singh, N. Sriram Balaji, and Rithvik Choudary Bollipalli.
Among them, Sasikumar Mukund holds the highest ranking at 368. He is returning to the squad after participating in the match against Morocco in Lucknow.
Captain Rajpal expressed his happiness about hosting the match at home, especially after spending the previous season away. India's last four out of five ties were played abroad, including the significant encounter against Pakistan in Islamabad.
“Competing in familiar surroundings is always an advantage. We have been on the road quite a bit over the last few seasons. The slow, hard courts at the DLTA would have been perfect had Sumit Nagal been available, but nonetheless, the conditions will favor us. Perhaps grass courts would have been selected if we had known about Sumit’s withdrawal earlier,” added Rajpal, who is also the president of DLTA.
Thomas Steodji is expected to be a crucial player for Togo, which comes into this match with three victories against Latvia, Indonesia, and Benin.
“I wouldn’t say it will be an easy win for us, but this tie provides an opportunity to develop the upcoming stars in a Davis Cup setting. Playing at home allows us to capitalize on our home advantage and the support from our fans,” Rajpal further remarked.
The Indian Davis Cup team will commence its preparations for the World Group I play-off tie starting January 23 at the DLTA Complex, the venue for the match.
Aryah Shah, Chirag Duhan, and Yuvaan Nandal have been incorporated into the squad. Their training alongside the Indian team will offer them valuable experience.
The DLTA is also undergoing enhancements to welcome the visiting players and officials, alongside local fans, with improvements to the venue. A players’ lounge is being established near the center court.
