Davis Cup: Leander Paes's chase towards a world record
What's the story
Tennis star Leander Paes will be chasing a world record as he plays the Davis Cup doubles match against New Zealand on Saturday. The 43-year old is just one match away from recording most doubles wins in Davis Cup. With 42 wins, he is tied with Italy's Nicola Pietrangeli and would be the most successful doubles player in Davis Cup history if he wins.
Details
India to host NZ for Davis Cup Asia/Oceania Group tie
New Zealand will play against India in the Davis Cup Asia/Oceania Group 1 tie from 3-5 February at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Sports Complex in Pune. India has played eight ties with New Zealand, with a 5-3 win loss record. In the 2015 season, India qualified for the World Group Play-offs after registering a 3-2 win over the NZ team.
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A farewell tie for the captain
Anand Amritraj, India's non-playing Davis Cup captain will be leading the side last time before being replaced by Mahesh Bhupathi. Amritraj, who registered his first big win in Davis Cup in Pune 22 years back said that he is optimistic about India's win against NZ.
Who will play whom?
Draws for the India-NZ tie announced
India's Davis Cup campaign underwent a big jolt even before the start of the tie when Saketh Myneni, highest ranked singles player was ruled out due to an injury. Yuki Bhambri and Ramkumar Ramanathan have been selected to play the singles match for India on day one and three. On day 2, Leander Paes will partner with Vishnu Vardhan in the doubles draw.
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Bopanna refuses to join the team when approached
When called to play for India in the place of Saketh, Rohan Bopanna reportedly refused to play the tie, claims the Federation. Anand Amritraj said, "Three people spoke to him(Rohan). I did not. I don't know exactly what happened."