Somdev happy home conditions helped India win tie

Chennai : Somdev Devvarman is happy that India's decision to host the Davis Cup tie in hot conditions in Chennai paid as it helped them win play-off against Brazil.

It was on Somdev's insistence that All Indian Tennis Association chose hard courts to host the tie, first at home for India in two years.

The Brazilian players were hardly troubled by weather on the first two days as it was cloudy but heat took a toll on Thomaz Bellucci, who conceded the first reverse singles today Somdev.

Bellucci felt breathlessness after the second set in which he was trailing 0-4 and decided to opt out of the contest, helping India level the tie 2-2.

"I was well prepared for the tie. I was happy when the sun came out this morning. As I warmed up for the match, I knew how hot and humid it is going to be today. In all counts, I am happy that I won the match," Somdev said after the match. Somdev was satisfied with this win though it was not an outright victory.

"A win never comes cheaply. One has to work hard, set plan and implement strategies. I realize what it used to be when I was somewhere near 150 rankings or so.

"The tie break win changed things for me. It did not work on Friday and Sunday today is a different aspect. Tie breaker made all the difference," he said.

Somdev also credited senior pro Leander Paes for the improvement in his game.

"I do not think that I am going to sustain 20 years in the circuit and Davis Cup play. He used to give me positive suggestions. Lee always has positive thinking and his presence is always inspiring for me," he said.

Bellucci said he does not know what caused his illness.

"I was not feeling well and felt breathless after the tie-breaker. I really don't know what caused it, maybe it was the heat. I was really tired after the first day, but felt good when I came on the court today. My bad luck."

"I have not been told about the examination report but was asked to take rest. I do not know as of yet whether when I will be cent per cent alright, so I cannot at this stage say whether I am withdrawing from any future tournament", he said.