IPTL PREDICITON: Slammers all set to hammer the beleaguered and unsettled Warriors

THE SINGAPORE SLAMMERS will take on the depleted Japan Warriors in the opening match of the final day of the Delhi leg of International Premier Tennis League (IPTL) at the Indira Gandhi stadium today. 

The Slammers have been consistent throughout the tournament and have displayed some incredible tennis. On the other hand, the Warriors have only managed to win one match in the competition till now and have felt the void after Maria Sharapova and Kei Nishikori left them early. 

And today, Kurumi Nara and Lucic Baroni too won’t take any part in the matches after citing health issues. The Warriors have called in veteran Kristen Flipkens for the women’s singles and mixed doubles. 

Currently, the Slammers are placed third on the points table and will be keen on moving up the ladder. Meanwhile, the Warriors would be desperate to finish off their Delhi tour on a high. TFG analyses the game and picks the winner of the match between Warriors and Slammers. 

LEGENDS SINGLES 

Although Warriors’ Thomas Enquist has shown signs of getting used to the format and conditions, the experience Carlos Moya might prove to be quite a challenge for the Swede. Expect both men to indulge in some baseline rallies and that will certainly provide the Spaniard with an edge. 

Winner: Moya 

In the mixed doubles, Slammers’ pairing of Pliskova/Brown haven’t tasted much success in this competition and might come under some pressure. That said, Flipkens too might take time to get accustomed to the conditions. Clearly, Japan will pin their hopes on crowd favourite Leander Paes to see their team through. However, expect Brown/Pliskova to come up with something special towards the end. 

Winners: Pliskova/Brown 

WOMEN’S SINGLES 

Belinda Bencic has enjoyed her time in the IPTL. The Swiss has spent enough time on the court and has adequate match practice in the singles under her belt. She will enter the clash against Flipkens as the favourite to win. Furthermore, Bencic emerged the winner in yesterday’s singles match quite comfortably and should continue her success today as well. 

Winner: Bencic 

MEN’S DOUBLES 

The men’s doubles is likely to provide some high-octane action. Expect the Delhi crowd to get involved as all four players will come out with some outrageous winners. Slammers’ pairing Melo/Kyrgios will have all the firepower and brilliance to win some crucial points while the Kohlschreiber/Paes will rely on their experience and soft hands to get the job done. 

Winners: Melo/Kyrgios 

MEN’S SINGLES 

This final set of the evening has all the makings of a cracker. Both Kyrgios and Philip Kohlschreiber will occupy the baseline and will produce some stunners. The Australian will try and attack the German with his power game, but anything in the range of Kohlschreiber’s backhand will hurt Kyrgios. Expect the set to go to a shoot-out. A gripping contest on the cards and Kyrgios form and momentum should see him come out trumps. 

Winner: Kyrgios

The Singapore Slammers are riding high on their winning momentum and will have little problems out-classing the depleted Japan Warriors. That said, the Warriors might surprise with a few sets, but largely they are staring at another drubbing.