As the four-member Indian contingent will begin the challenge at Asia/Oceania Group I in Fed Cup on Wednesday, former tennis player Ankita Bhambri believes the tournament is going to be highly competitive.
Bhambri told ANI, "All the players here are very competitive. They have played tournaments all around the world. They are used to dealing with pressure. Some of the team here have played World Group playoffs and then have come back into qualifying. Whether it is Kazakhstan, China and other teams, they are all wanting to do well."
She added that it would be stressful and tiring to play different teams each day but the players will have to come out and play each tie and give their best.
India's top singles player, Ankita Raina, has been named in the India squad for the event which is slated to be held at the R K Khanna Tennis stadium in the national capital from February 7 to February 10.
Besides Raina, Karman Kaur Thandi, Pranjala Yadlapalli and Prarthana Thombare are also in the squad.
However, Indian ace player Sania Mirza, who is currently struggling with a knee injury, will not feature in the Fed Cup.
Commenting on it, Bhambri said, "She has always been a great asset to the team. It is a great morale boost to have her around. As far as doubles tie is considered, she adds great value. Her not being there is a bummer but I think the girls are used to it now and they know they have to compete and fight."
Karan Rastogi, a former Indian tennis player and current Hong Kong team captain also appreciated the Indian side, calling it a young and motivated squad.
Rastogi said, "They are doing decently well. We have Sania [Mirza], who has been playing for so many years but I think now the younger generation like Ankita [Raina] and Karman [Thandi] are doing alright. If they keep doing right things and play the right tournaments, anything can happen."
India have been clubbed with Kazakhstan, Hong Kong and China while Group B comprises Japan, Chinese Taipei, Thailand and Korea.
Karman will open India's campaign in the Fed Cup qualifier against world number 125 Wang Yafan of China.
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