India have taken a bold gamble for their Davis Cup World Group I tie against Switzerland, handing a debut to 20-year-old Dhakshineshwar Suresh alongside returning ace Sumit Nagal. The indoor clash, starting Friday, will decide a spot in next year’s Davis Cup Qualifiers.
Rajpal’s surprise call
Captain Rohit Rajpal pushed for Dhakshineshwar’s inclusion, coordinating with his US-based coaches to prepare him on indoor courts. The 6’5” Madurai-born player impressed in practice with his powerful serve and flat groundstrokes, prompting Rajpal to name him India’s second singles option.
“There is nothing whimsical about it. Dhakshineshwar’s serve is a big weapon indoors, and he has been shaping up well,” Rajpal said.
Nagal returns, Yuki ruled out
Sumit Nagal, who last featured in India’s 2023 home win against Morocco, makes his Davis Cup return after missing ties against Pakistan, Sweden and Togo. Currently ranked 292, Nagal has struggled this season but recently reached the semifinals at the Trieste Challenger.
India, however, will be without doubles specialist Yuki Bhambri, sidelined by a heel injury suffered during his US Open run. Rothvik Bollipalli will partner N Sriram Balaji in his absence.
Swiss firepower
Switzerland’s squad features Jerome Kym (world No. 155), Marc Andrea Husler (222), Dominic Stricker (244) and doubles player Jakub Paul (78). Junior Australian Open champion Henry Bernet has also been added to their roster.
India leads Switzerland 2-1 in past Davis Cup meetings, last winning in 1993 at Kolkata. With indoor conditions in Biel suiting aggressive hitters, India will hope youth and fresh energy can tilt the tie in their favour.
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