Japan Davis Cup team bared, PHL bets to hold fans' day

CEBU, Philippines - Japan’s bets to the 2011 Davis Cup Asia-Oceania Zone Group 1 first round action at the Plantation Bay Resort and Spa on March 4 to 6 will be composed mainly of players who played against the PHL squad last year.

Japan’s nominations include Go Soeda, Tatsuma Ito, Yuichi Sugita, Takao Suzuki and Eiji Takeuchi, the team captain.

Of the four, only Sugita was not part of Japan’s lineup against the Philippines before. Sugita’s last Davis Cup appearance was in 2009.

Last year, the Japanese netters defeated the PHL bets at their own turf.

This time, the Pinoys are hoping to turn the tables around with them getting the hosting chores that will surely give them the so-called 'homecourt advantage.' As host, the Pinoys have the discretion as to what ball to use and what court surface to play.

Japan enjoys a 17-9 advantage against the Philippines based on their head-to-head record in the Davis Cup.

The Pinoys are hoping that the playing dates will be sunny as it will be an added advantage for them since its cold in Japan and the players are not used to see action under hot weather condition.

To connect with their supporters, the PHL team composed of Cecil Mamiit, Johnny Arcilla, Treat Huey, Vicente Elberto Anasta, and PJ Tierro will hold a fans' day at 2 pm today at the Baseline Sports and Recreation Center.

The Pinoys will have a short practice session followed by autograph-signing and picture taking.

A similar activity will take place on the 27th at the Lapu-Lapu City tennis courts.

The Japanese players are expected to arrive on the 26th. – THE FREEMAN