New Delhi:
India will have its eyes set on clinching a much awaited World Group berth when they take on a depleted Canadian side on their home turf at Edmonton on Friday. India would like to put behind the memories of defeats suffered in three consecutive years at the Davis Cup world group playoff when they face the North American nation.
India would look to leverage its strength in doubles with the experienced Rohan Bopanna and the talented Saketh Myneni in their ranks. The formidable Indian pair would be up against Canada's doubles specialist and tour veteran Daniel Nestor, who is likely to team up with Vasek Pospisil. However, the Canadians could also play with Brayden Schnur, who would like to make a grand Davis Cup debut if given a chance.
In the singles, the Canadians have the edge over the Indians with their emerging singles star Denis Shapalov in a rich vein of form of late. The teenager had made it to the fourth round at the US Open. The Indians would look forward to Ramkumar Ramanathan and Yuki Bhambri to pull off upsets over their more fancied Canadian opponents. Both Ramkumar and Yuki have staged some big upsets on the ATP tour in recent times.
Indian star Yuki Bhambri, who recently knocked Gael Monfils out of the Citi Open in Washington, would look to pose a strong challenge to the Canadians.
Ramkumar Ramanathan, who pulled off a sensational victory over world Dominic Thiem, would also be eager to make a mark against Canada. Ranked 154 in the world, Ramanathan is known for stepping up his game against tougher opponents would be looking to secure at least one point for his side in this tie.
