New Delhi: After the Indian Premier League (IPL) was shifted out from India, tennis could also become the casualty of security concerns.
The Australian Davis cup team is unsure about travelling to India for a Davis cup tie in May.
India is scheduled to face Australia at the Nungambakkam courts in Chennai but security concerns have cast a doubt over the tie.
However, All India Lawn Tennis Association says the tie is on track.
"We have tightened up the security. Now that the issue has been highlighted we will take more steps. The hotels have also told us that they will be taking full security measures," assures AITA Executive Director (Development & M) Colonel Ranbir Chauhan.
The IPL shifting out of India has meant countries like Australia are doubtful of travelling to India. But India tennis officials believe that holding a three-day tournament is entirely different from hosting a six-week long tournament in eight cities.
"The ATP tour event was there where the world's best player participated. There were many more players than there would be for the Davis Cup tie. We had no problem and the Chennai Police did an excellent job. We had support from all quarters," says Hiten Joshi.
Just a few days ago, the International Tennis Federation moved a Davis Cup tie out of Pakistan when the Philippines refused to travel because of security fears.
When contacted by CNN-IBN, the ITF said, "The ITF has received a letter from Tennis Australia expressing security concerns about the forthcoming Davis Cup tie in Chennai. The ITF has asked its security consultants to look at the venue and the security plan provided by the All India Tennis Association, and expects to report back to both national associations next week."
So for now Indian fans are keeping their fingers crossed and hoping that the all-clear comes soon so that the likes of former Wimbledon champion Lleyton Hewitt will make the journey to India.
(With inputs from Pratibha)
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