India confident of good show against Japan

India confident of good show against Japan
EXPRESS NEWS SERVICE

Mumbai, March 30: On the eve of Indian team’s departure to Tokyo for the second leg Asia-Oceania (Group I) Davis Cup tie, coach Nandan Bal portrays a picture of confidence. He is sure of a Indian victory. ‘‘The boys are in fine shape and that is where I believe we have won the half battle’’, said Nandan Bal here at the Dr GA Ranade Tennis Centre on Friday. India is practicing here before their scheduled departure on Saturday.

Speaking to reporters, Nandan Bal said, ‘‘The boys had a nice practice session here for the last some days. They are fully fit and raring to go.’’

Asked whether Japanese are tough than the Chinese, Bal replied in affirmative and added, ‘‘We have beaten them traditionally but we are not taking them lightly. Every country is difficult to beat in their own backyard.’’

Nandan informed that Japanese authorities have informed them that at present the night time temperature of Tokyo is seven to eight degree while that of daytime is 17 to 18 which should not trouble the boys, according to him. On the question of whether Paes and Bhupathi will also play in singles apart from doubles, he said it will depend on the situation but did not rule out that possibility.The team comprising of Leander Paes, Mahesh Bhupathi and Harsh Mankad is having a practice session under the watchful eyes of Nandan Bal and physical trainer Sanjay Singh. While commenting on the fitness of the team, Sanjay Singh, who is also a personal trainer to both Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi, said, ‘‘the team is gearing up very well and everyone is fit.