Somdev-led Davis Cup triumph is more significant, says Leander Paes

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India's Davis Cup thrashing of South Africa to make it to the World Group yesterday pushed Leander Paes into a state of elation.

Paes, who stayed back in America to undergo rehabilitation for a shoulder injury, sustained during his victorious doubles triumph at the US Open, said that India's triumph in Johannesburg was more sweet in the absence of himself and the injury to veteran Mahesh Bhupathi. "This win is especially significant since I was unavailable and with Mahesh suffering a groin injury during the doubles encounter on Saturday," said Paes, who followed the South African conquest on television in New York.

Praise for Somdev Devvarman was more than forthcoming. "To come back from being two sets down shows that he has a lot of mental strength. Somdev is the future of Indian tennis. Full credit to him for winning two singles matches in the five-match rubber. And that too abroad! This speaks volumes of his talent. It also shows that he has a great head on his shoulders," said Paes.

After Devvarman's heroics, India went on to win the fifth and final match of the tie thanks to Yuki Bhambri's splendid show against Izak van der Merwe.

Paes, the 1996 Olympics bronze medallist has carried India's Davis Cup flag splendidly over the years. It's 11 years since India were in the World Group and Paes can't wait to have a crack on the upper stage again. "The win against South Africa is great for this Davis Cup team which has worked extremely hard to get back to the Group. I can't wait to get back playing there. I am really looking forward to our next Davis Cup fixture," said Paes.