Ankita Raina, the leading force in Indian women’s singles tennis, is set to lead the charge for the nation at the prestigious Billie Jean King Cup 2024

Dara Singh Chahal

Pune, 3rd Mar 2024: With her impressive world ranking of No. 226, Raina anchors a formidable five-member team selected to represent India in the Asia-Oceania Group I ties.

Scheduled from April 8 to 13, the Billie Jean King Cup matches will unfold in Changsha, China, where India will contend with formidable opponents including hosts China, Chinese Taipei, Pacific Oceania, and the Republic of Korea.

Joining Raina in the Indian tennis contingent are Sahaja Yamalapalli (ranked 329), Shrivalli Bhamidipaty (ranked 482), Rutuja Bhosale (ranked 333), and Prarthana Thombare, India’s highest-ranked doubles player at No. 172. Vaidehi Chaudhari, ranked 498 in singles, has been designated as the reserve player, poised to offer support as needed.

Under the seasoned guidance of former Indian tennis player Shalini Thakur Chawla, who assumes the role of captain, the Indian team aims to make a mark in the prestigious tournament, formerly known as the Fed Cup. The Billie Jean King Cup, akin to the Davis Cup for men, embodies the pinnacle of women’s international tennis, fostering spirited competition and camaraderie among nations.

The stakes are high in the Asia-Oceania Group I matches, where the top two teams will secure coveted spots in the play-offs, while the bottom two risk relegation to the Asia-Oceania Group II in the ensuing year.

India’s performance in the previous edition of the Billie Jean King Cup saw the team narrowly evade relegation, finishing fourth in the Asia-Oceania Group I. With renewed determination and a blend of seasoned talent and emerging stars, the Indian squad endeavors to ascend to greater heights and leave an indelible mark on the global tennis stage.

As Ankita Raina and her compatriots gear up for the challenges ahead, their unwavering resolve and collective spirit exemplify India’s rich tennis tradition and its enduring quest for excellence on the international arena.