Thaindian News

Johannesburg, Sep 19 (IANS) India’s No.1 Somdev Devvarman Saturday said psychologically the pressure will be on South Africa in Sunday’s two reverse singles in the Davis Cup World Group play-off tie as they still trail 1-2 here at the Ellis Park Indoor Arena.
South Africa got a lifeline when Mahesh Bhupathi playing with Rohan Bopanna in the doubles, pulled his groin in the third set after splitting the first two. The Indians decided to pull out, trailing 3-6, 6-3, 0-4 here Saturday.

Somdev, who won India’s first opening singles against Izak Van der Merwe before Rohan Bopanna made it 2-0 Friday, would be first up against his practice partner and South Africa No.1 Rik de Voest, who lost to Bopanna in the second singles.

“The pressure will be on South Africa. They are down 1-2 and moreover, they are playing at home. They are now under pressure to win both their singles matches tomorrow,” Somdev told IANS.

The 24-year-old Indian said he will go all out to seal the World Group final berth for India for the first time in 11 years.

“Irrespective of what happened in the doubles, I am prepared for the second singles. I had a good victory against Van der Merwe and I am happy with my form. I am comfortable with the courts here and have adjusted to the conditions well. I had a break today and I am ready for the rubber.”

Incidentally, Somdev, who qualified for his first Grand Slam singles at the US Open last month, reaching the second round, will be up against a player with whom he not only practices, but the two also share the same coach, Scott Mccain.

“I know Rik’s game inside out. Tomorrow, it will be all about dealing with the pressure and executing,” said Somdev, who practices with De voest at Texas, Austin.