If one goes by statistics, India's always had an easy outing against Japan as the Davis Cup over-all record stands at 18-3. Non-playing captain SP Misra is optimistic that this time round too, in the September 16-18 away tie, India would have a chance to win in the play-off stage and enter the World Group.
“When I heard that we had drawn Japan, my first thought was that our Indian team will be able to beat them,” said Misra to Hindustan Times. “However, this time it will be an away tie and we will be playing in alien conditions. Where ever the tie is held, indoors or outdoors, Osaka or Tokyo, we will give it out best shot.”
Japan will have world No. 50 Kei Nishikori in their team and will pose a threat in singles. However, with Somdev Devvarman's current form, the 26-year-old world No. 65 should be able to tackle him.