History repeated itself for Great Britain’s boys at the Junior Davis Cup by BNP Paribas finals when, for the second day in succession, they lost a rain-delayed deciding doubles rubber, this time against India. The British boys, who are led this week by captain Greg Rusedski, had been in an almost identical situation the previous day, when they were edged out by Brazil in a tense three-set doubles match which had been held up overnight after rain stopped play.
Just as they had 24 hours earlier against Brazil, Ashley Hewitt and George Morgan battled hard but they proved powerless in the end to stop a 6-4, 7-6(6) defeat to Yuki Bhambri and Saurabh Singh. Bhambri in particular proved to be India’s trump card. In beating James Marsalek in the singles on Wednesday, the world junior No.18 showed why he is the highest ranked player competing this week in San Luis Potosi.
India could top the group and progress to the semi-finals if it beats Brazil on Thursday but all is not lost for Great Britain. If the team beats Mexico in its final round robin tie then it could come third in the group, which would mean a chance to go into a play-off to be amongst the higher placed teams in the final standings.
The news is much better for Great Britain’s girls in their campaign to win the Junior Fed Cup by BNP Paribas. Heather Watson, Tara Moore and Amy Askew will guarantee themselves a place in the semi-finals if they beat Chile on Thursday. The British girls have been in blistering form so far in San Luis Potosi and, having won their first two round robin ties, could still progress even if they lose to Chile, providing other results go their way.