Sumit Nagal backs India’s doubles depth despite Yuki Bhambri’s injury withdrawal ahead of the Davis Cup tie against South Korea in Seoul.
India’s Davis Cup team has suffered a setback ahead of its crucial qualifier against South Korea, with experienced doubles player Yuki Bhambri ruled out because of a right thigh strain. However, Sumit Nagal believes India has enough depth to handle the absence and remain competitive in the tie.
The Indian team is preparing in Seoul after arriving several days ahead of the opening matches. The squad is hoping to build on its dramatic 3–2 win over the Netherlands in Bengaluru and secure a place in the Davis Cup Final 8 under the current format.
India Preparing Early in Seoul
Sumit Nagal said the team has used its early arrival in Seoul to get accustomed to the local conditions and put in extensive work on court and in the gym.
According to Nagal, the atmosphere inside the Indian camp is positive, with the players focused on making the most of the final practice sessions before the tie begins.
The Indian team has three days of preparation remaining before the matches start, giving the players additional time to understand the conditions and fine-tune their strategies.
Nagal Wants India to Carry Bengaluru Momentum
India’s victory over the Netherlands in Bengaluru gave the team confidence heading into the away tie. Nagal also credited Sureshkumar Dhakshineswar for his performances during the previous encounter.
He said the team benefited from playing at home in Bengaluru and now wants the squad to take the same fighting spirit and energy into Seoul.
Nagal also praised the local organisers and the All India Tennis Association for their efforts in making the previous tie successful.
Seoul Courts Expected to Produce Long Rallies
The conditions in Seoul could make the tie physically demanding. Sumit Nagal described the courts as medium-paced, suggesting that players could be involved in extended baseline exchanges rather than short, explosive points.
The weather is also expected to be comfortable, with temperatures around 24–25 degrees Celsius. Nagal believes the conditions should be manageable for both teams.
With qualification for the Final 8 at stake, the Indian players will also have to deal with the pressure surrounding the tie.
Nagal Explains His Approach to Pressure
As India’s leading singles player, Nagal said he tries to control pressure by narrowing his focus to specific tasks instead of thinking about the larger result.
On court, that means concentrating on areas such as his forehand, footwork and serve. During gym sessions, he focuses on physical preparation, while recovery sessions are dedicated to his body and fitness.
He also highlighted the importance of proper sleep and recovery during a Davis Cup week.
Nagal acknowledged that nerves are unavoidable when players walk onto the court in a high-pressure team competition. His approach is to accept those feelings and then concentrate on the next point rather than allowing his thoughts to wander.
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Nagal Warns India Against Underestimating South Korea
Sumit Nagal strongly rejected the idea that South Korea has an inexperienced or unfamiliar lineup.
He pointed to the credentials of Kwon Soon-woo, who has previously reached the world’s top 50 and won an ATP 250 title. Hong Seong-chan has also been ranked inside the world’s top 150 and was once ranked No. 2 in junior tennis.
Nagal also highlighted Hyeon Chung, who has previously reached the top 20, defeated Novak Djokovic and reached the Australian Open semifinals.
He said Indian players have known several of their Korean counterparts since their junior years, making the upcoming tie a contest between familiar and capable opponents.
Nagal Praises Sureshkumar Dhakshineswar
Nagal also spoke highly of teammate Sureshkumar Dhakshineswar, whom he has known since the latter was around 16 or 17 years old.
Dhakshineswar’s career was disrupted by injuries around the COVID-19 period, followed by a transition to college tennis. Nagal believes those setbacks cost him valuable competitive years but praised his recent performances.
He described Dhakshineswar as a reserved person with a good nature and said his recent Davis Cup performances have been impressive.
Yuki Bhambri’s Withdrawal a Blow, But India Has Options
Yuki Bhambri’s withdrawal due to a right thigh strain has forced India to reconsider its doubles combination. Bhambri is an experienced doubles player, making his absence a significant change for the team.
However, Sumit Nagal said India has enough options to fill the gap. N. Sriram Balaji, Niki Kaliyanda Poonacha and Anirudh Chandrasekar are among the players available to strengthen the doubles setup.
Nagal specifically pointed to Anirudh and Niki, noting their strong individual rankings and experience. He expressed confidence that India’s doubles players can step up when required.
Indian Fans in Seoul Asked to Support Team
Sumit Nagal will be competing in a Davis Cup tie in South Korea for the first time. He acknowledged that away ties can be challenging because Davis Cup crowds often create a more intense atmosphere.
With the Indian team seeking a place in the Final 8, Nagal has urged Indians living in Seoul and other parts of South Korea to attend the matches and support the visiting team.
India will look to combine its recent home momentum, strong singles options and doubles depth as it takes on South Korea in a tie that could prove significant for its Davis Cup campaign.
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