Cuba optimistic of returning to Davis Cup

Havana, Feb 9 (IANS):

Cuban tennis commissioner, Juan Antonio Pino, one of the best players in the island’s history, hoped his country will make a successful return to Davis Cup as part of America 3 group.

The group comprise Cuba, Bahamas, Bermuda, Bolivia, Costa Rica and Honduras. Matches will be held June 18-27 in La Paz, Bolivia, reports Xinhua.

“We have shortlisted a group of talented young players who have improved in their daily work. We are optimistic as we have seen how they have been perfecting their game,” Pino was quoted as saying.

Pino said the return of Cuba to the competition represents a great opportunity, after an absence of five years.

“It is a fact that this return gives us prestige before the International Tennis Federation, motivates the players and gives us the opportunity to develop our sport,” he said.

The Cuban team will be headed by champion Randy Blanco, and also includes No.2 player William Dorante, Roberto Cruz, Omar Hernandez and Ernesto Alfonso.

This will be the 102nd edition of Davis Cup.

Cuba took part in the Davis Cup for the first time in 1924. Then for 30 years, Cuba remained in the Cup, but with poor results, and stayed away from 1959 before making a comeback in 1987.

In over seven decades, Cuba’s most outstanding player has been Pino, who played 13 years in the Cup, appearing in 63 games, single and double, with 34 victories and 29 defeats.