Revolt is the most remarkable thing in Indian tennis: Somdev Devvarman

Somdev said they could have reconsidered their stand had AITA communicated its latest concessions through proper channel.

"The last time AITA wrote to us was on January 6. We were completely unaware of the statement they came up with in the media yesterday. How are we supposed to reconsider our decision then?," he questioned.

"I was very clear, that we want everything professionally before we took a stand," he said.

AITA has agreed to change support staff, increased players' share in prize money, nodded on consulting players while choosing surface, venue and the physiotherapist.

The federation has also agreed to give business class airfare for even group level ties and also accommodated the demand to have six players in the side instead of four.

Somdev, however, said they are ready to play for India with new concessions but their fight for change in system will not stop.

"We are not happy. Not happy with the way AITA communicated to us. If they give us the same statement that they gave to media yesterday, yes we will reconsider our stand but our fight for improvement will not stop."

"We will always play for our country. We have always put country before ourselves."

Somdev said they have no reason to not play for India but the assurances have to be in writing from the AITA.

"Every single one of us is happy to play for India. We have earlier played and done well for our country. There is no reason to not do it for one tie. We have not been communicated at all. They just said casually, "ho jayega ho jayega". We are hearing this for long time," he said

Somdev also shot down suggestions that that actually it was Bhupathi-inspired revolt and said all the young players are part of the initiative.

... contd.

ALSO READ

David Beckham retires from football

Spot-fixing: I am shocked and disappointed, says Rahul Dravid

IPL 1-to-6 timeline: Controversies hit cricket for 'six'

What Next: Will Sreesanth get away for want of proper laws on fixing?