Kolkata, Apr 03: A recharged Leander Paes, the oppressive heat and humidity, combined with local advantage, tilt the balance heavily in India's favour as they clash with New Zealand in the Davis Cup Asia-Oceania Group-I second round tie beginning here tomorrow.
Besides this, the psychological advantage of having drubbed the Kiwis 4-1 at their backyard in Wellington last year, and a friendy draw, further embellish the favourites tag on the hosts who also have an enviable 7-2 win-loss record at the South club lawns, the venue of the tie.
However, with the maximum temparature at around 35 degree celsius, and 93 per cent humidity, the conditions are diametrically opposite to what India encountered in Wellington, where a biting cold was accompanied by gusty winds.
But Davis Cup wizard Paes, who scripted India's win in New Zealand, said that the weather will definitely be of advantage to the Indians.
"There the wind and cold was not to our liking. But the condition here suits us," said Paes, who kickstarts India's campaign against Mark Nielsen tomorrow, after the draw of lots today.



"This is the magic of the Davis Cup. When you host a tie, you always stand to gain from familiar surroundings," he said.


Bureau Report