Advantage India, insists Somdev Devvarman

New Delhi: India were handed a tough draw against Serbia at home in the Davis Cup World Group playoffs slated for September and the country’s no. one singles player Somdev Devvarman believes that the doubles encounter will be the crucial one.

“It is going to be tough for sure. The doubles point is always going to be the most valuable and important point for us,” Somdev told this paper from Houston on Thursday.

India lost 1-4 to Serbia when they last met in Novi Sad in March 2011 and Somdev was the only player to win a rubber. He defeated Janko Tipsarevic 7-5, 7-5, 7-6 (3).

“This time we are playing Serbia at home and that will be a big advantage. No doubt Novak Djokovic will definitely make our life tough if he turns up but playing Serbia will be a great learning experience for us,” he added.

Somdev, who got accolades from all quarters for his performance against South Korea in Busan, credits the entire team for the success. India won 3-1. “I am extremely happy with the team. Both coach (Zeeshan Ali) and captain (Anand Amritraj) did a great job on and off the court to get all the players relaxed, ready and play to their potential. I feel like the entire team is very happy.”