Earlier in 1974, the Indian Davis Cup team was on the cusp of history and it had made its first ever final, and had a chance to become the first team outside the "big four” USA, Great Britain, France and Australia to be crowned world champion and however, that dream went up in black smoke, where South Africa qualified as their opponents, with the tie set to be played in Johannesburg.
Presently India's hopes of winning their upcoming World Group play-offs sublimated just as quickly when they drew Spain as their opponents. And any leftover crystals of hope were also promptly charred when the visitors has fielded a full strength team. India, on the other hand, is without the services of Somdev Devvarman, Yuki Bhambri, and most recently, doubles specialist Rohan Bopanna, all out due to injury.
With India's best (although discordant) doubles pairing of Paes and Bopanna unavailable, Saketh Myneni represents India's best chance of notching up a point and after helping India beat South Korea in July, he has reached the main draw of the US Open for the first time, and was on the verge of a victory over world number 51 Jiri Vesely.
Currently the RK Khanna Tennis Stadium was warm and exceedingly balmy during the practice session on Thursday, while the worst of the heat may be dodged, staying hydrated will be a priority for both teams, especially the visitors and India, making its third consecutive appearance at World Group play-offs, will probably have to wait a while longer for a shot at glory.
