SP Misra sees no problem with Indian tennis team in London

HYDERABAD: After all the bitterness that engulfed the Indian tennis team in the run-up to the London Olympics, SP Misra's appointment as the non-playing captain should come as a soothing balm to warring players.
The 72-year-old genial Hyderabadi had represented India in Davis Cup in 1969-70 and was also part of the All India Tennis Association (AITA) selection panel.
The golden oldie is excited - like a kid in a candy store - with the latest assignment, which will be his first trip to Olympics. "I am excited like anyone who has the rare privilege of being to Olympics," he said obviously overjoyed.
Misra is fully confident that the rancour witnessed ahead of the deadline for the team to be announced for Olympics will be a thing of the past once the team assembles in London. Tennis in Olympics will be played on the grass courts of Wimbledon.
"The build-up was not just what the doctor ordered. But I'm sure that everyone who has made the Olympic cut will play his or her heart out. It's a culmination of a four-year wait for every athlete to realise what will always remain the ultimate dream," Misra said.
And according to him the charm of the Games is infectious. "Definitely. It is not just players who feel the Olympics. The aura around the Games is something which is not comparable with any other sporting event. So we all should be eager to soak in the magnificent ambience," said the biggest name in men's tennis from Hyderabad.
Misra was also delighted that two Hyderabadis made it to the Olympic team: Jagadeeshan Vishnuvardhan and Sania Mirza. "It is another huge honour for all of us. This is one major plus which should make things easy for me during the Games. Having known all the Indian players for so many years, I am confident of getting the best out of them in such a prestigious event," Misra said.
Misra was of the opinion that India have it in them to stun the best. "London Olympics should be a memorable experience for all of us. We have the potential to stun the best. Leander is playing in a record-breaking sixth Olympics and Sania is no novice (only Indian woman to win two Grand Slam titles). Let us hope for the best."
Misra is aware that more than tennis inputs his man management skills will be severely tested. "I know it is not the best of times to be with the team. But I am confident of setting the house in order. I have the highest respect for them (players) and will try my best to keep them in right spirits ahead of the huge challenge," he said.
Misra is in the process of convening a meeting of all players in the Games Village on July 22. The organizing committee, he said, is giving the Indian team seven courts for practice.
"My first objective is to ensure that the players are happy and in the right frame of mind before the Games. That is important to get the best out of them. Let's us see how things shape up and let's hope for the best," Misra signed off.