EVEN BEFORE STEPPING onto the court, the Indian Aces will be on the back-foot since their captain and cornerstone Fabrice Santoro has opted out of today’s contest, citing an injury. Therefore, going by the rules, the Aces will concede six games in the legends category to start their match against the Singapore Slammers today in their International Premier Tennis League (IPTL) in Dubai.
The Aces went into the match against the Philippine Mavericks with a similar handicap, but with some cohesive and gutsy performance eked out a narrow win. That said, the formidable Mavericks will pose a stiffer challenge and the table topper might have a difficult day on the court today.
WOMEN’S SINGLES
Agnieszka Radwanska has shown great form in the tournament so far and is likely to continue her dream run. On the other hand, Belinda Bencic hasn’t been able to impose her game on her opponents. Expect a easy win for the Polish player in this set.
Winner: Radwanska
MIXED DOUBLES
While Bopanna won’t feature in this set, Ivan Dodig will partner Sania Mirza for the Aces. On the other hand, Brown/Pliskova might try to upset the rhythm of Dodig/Mirza, but the experience and match practice of the Aces duo should help them get the crucial win.
Winners: Dodig/Mirza
MEN’S DOUBLES
The set between Dodig/Bopanna and Murray/Melo has all the potential of being a cracker. Both teams have all the expertise in shot making and strategy. That said, the Aces’ pair look more settled and might come out trumps in a tight finish.
Winners: Dodig/Bopanna
MEN’S SINGLES
Aces’ Bernard Tomic might have played some brilliant tennis to win against Ivo Karlovic yesterday, but the challenge of Andy Murray might prove to be quite a handful for the Aussie. The Brit’s firepower and court sense should see team Singapore triumph here.
Winner: Murray
The Slammers might not play Nick Kyrgios today, but there is enough firepower and depth in the Singapore unit to get the better of Indian Aces. Although, the Aces will try and run the Slammers close, it’s difficult to see the table toppers win this tie.