Bengaluru: India has its task cut out in the Billie Jean King Cup playoffs, beginning at the SM Krishna Tennis Stadium on Friday. The odds are stacked against the hosts, who are logged alongside higher-rated sides in Netherlands and Slovenia in Group G.The gulf in rankings between India and its opponents this weekend, underlines the challenge that lies ahead. Sahaja Yamalapalli, No. 309, leads India’s singles lineup, followed by Shrivalli Bhamidipaty at No. 381. In contrast, the Netherlands boasts Suzan Lamens (No. 87), seasoned campaigner Arantxa Rus (No. 139), and Anouk Koevermans (No. 198). Slovenia, too, brings formidable depth, led by top-100 player Kaja Juvan (No. 98) and 2021 French Open semifinalist Tamara Zidanšek (No. 162).Friday’s contest between the two European teams will set the tone for the weekend, giving India a sense of what awaits. The hosts face Slovenia on Saturday and the Netherlands on Sunday. There is plenty at stake in the three-day event with the group winner advancing to the BJK Cup Qualifiers in 2026. The other two teams will compete in Group I next year.The home side presents a blend of youth and experience. Alongside 23-year-old Shrivalli Bhamidipaty and 25-year-old Sahaja Yamalapalli — likely to be captain Vishal Uppal’s choices for the singles rubbers — India is expected to rely on the seasoned doubles pairing of Ankita Raina, 32, and Prarthana Thombare, 31.“When you’re playing for the country, it is a different feeling. I feel it’s equal when you go out there and play,” Ankita said during a press meet at the Karnataka State Lawn Tennis Association grounds on Thursday. “We have seen it in the past, like with Leander (Paes) and Sania (Mirza), that’s why the sport is here today. I think that it completely depends on the day.” The Indian players, who assembled here last week, are well aware of the challenge ahead. They have put in long hours on court, acclimatising to the conditions under the watchful eye of Uppal. Off the court, the squad has spent time bonding and relaxing together, helping build a positive and cohesive team atmosphere.Though the road ahead looks steep, India will be eager to script history and secure a place in next year’s BJK Cup Qualifiers. For now, however, Uppal prefers to keep the focus on preparation and performance rather than outcomes. “We’re not thinking about making history. We’re going up against two very quality teams. They have excellent players. We have to focus on our plans and how well we can execute them. We want to take the fight to our opponents and see what happens,” said Uppal, who urged fans in the city to turn up in large numbers and back the home team.
