Saketh Myneni shows team spirit, says he's playing role off court

New Delhi: India's reserve player Saketh Myneni is not making complaints on missing out the Davis Cup tie against Czech Republic beginning here September 18, saying he is playing his role off the court.

Myneni, ranked 163 in singles, made his Davis Cup debut against Chinese Taipei in February last year and has played ties whenever senior pro Leander Paes opts out.

Captain Anand Amritraj On Tuesday said Leander gets to play when he wants to play and that was a bit unfair on Myneni.

"It's same for me, it does not matter I am playing or not playing. You have to contribute, practice and help the team. I am happy to be here. Still want to contribute, doing a different part of my role. Not on the court then off the court," Myneni said.

"The good thing is that I like the team atmosphere, it's fun. I played college tennis and I know what a team thinks. It's not just the one guy involved but everybody, the captain, the coach everyone," he said.

He also hoped that in future he and Rohan will make a solid pair.

"I just started last year, getting used this stage, playing for country. Leander has been outstanding, this guy is a legend, Rohan is also experienced. Leander has played well in big situations, there is that X factor. He is the biggest guy," he said.

In his first tie, Myneni won both the doubles and the dead fourth rubber. He missed out on World Group Play-off tie against Serbia. In the away tie against Korea in April last year, he won with Rohan Bopanna but the pair lost the close rubber against New Zealand in July.

The 27-year-old said India need to pull off at least one singles on Friday.

"It's going to be battle, will be a test for Somdev and Yuki. You want to build momentum, get one singles on day 1. You are underdogs or what, you got to believe yourself," he said.

Talking about his ordinary season so far, he said, "It's been up and down due to injuries (neck and shoulder). I will try to come back stronger next season."