"Davis Cup is something very important to me. It's not like I am not prepared to put myself forward for the team. It is a conscious decision that I made. Look in the last few years, I have let the youngsters play in Asian zone. I am 42, I belive that young one should come and take me out of my job," Paes told mediapersons after his first practice session ahead of the World Group Play-Off against Czech Republic.
The veteran star was asked the question in reference to non-playing captain Anand Amritraj's answer that he felt bad for Saketh Myneni, who had played in the last tie against New Zealand at Christchurch.
"If I keep playing all the ties that we should win comfortably, then I can play for the next four to five years. It's about nurturing the youngsters. As they get better and better, improve their ranking, out me out of my job," the 42-year-old stars, winner of 19 Grand Slam titles said.
Also Read
After hitting with partner Rohan Bopanna for about an hour in the evening, he concluded that the court is quite slow, the ball is jumping so players should be ready for long rallies.
"Physicial fitness will be a huge factor in this tie. It's eight in the evening it is so humid, if you come out at noon or in afive set match in Delhi heat, the physicality of this tie will be phenomenal. It's not best of three. The court is playing really slow, the ball is jumping," Paes said.
"The obvious part is the fluid, the rest, getting then body ready but also look after diet, stretching and recovering. What is going to be tested that rallies are going to be long and whoever wins the first set, controls the first set, will do well," he said.
Leander said even if at this age, he was able to win the Grand Slams it was due to discipline. He won three mixed doubles titles, except French Open which he did not play.