India Gears Up for Billie Jean King Cup 2025 in Pune
Exciting Tennis Action Awaits in Pune
Pune (Maharashtra) [India], April 4: The Indian tennis team is set to compete in the Billie Jean King Cup 2025 Asia-Oceania Group-1, scheduled from April 8 to April 12 at the Mhalunge Balewadi tennis complex in Pune.
With aspirations to reach the playoffs for only the second time in the tournament's history, this event marks a significant return to India after a decade, and it is the first time Pune will host it in 25 years.
The tournament is backed by the Department of Sports and Youth Services, Government of Maharashtra, along with the Sports Authority of India. Local spice industry leaders, Suhana, will join fans as sponsors to bolster support for Indian women tennis players, as stated in a recent release.
Additionally, the Indian team has revealed their new kits for the Billie Jean King Cup 2025 Asia-Oceania Group-1.
Sunder Iyer, the tournament director and Hon. Secretary of MSLTA, announced that the Indian women's team will be captained by Ankita Raina, who is also India's top-ranked singles player and a bronze medalist from the Asian Games. She will be joined by teammates Sahaja Yamalapalli, Shrivalli Bhamidipaty, and Vaidehi Chaudhari. Prarthana Thombare, known for her strong performance in the WTA Mumbai Open, will add her experience to the squad. Notably, 15-year-old Maaya Rajeshwaran, who impressed at the WTA Mumbai Open in February, will join the team as a reserve player.
Radhika Kanitkar Tulpule, a former player from Pune, has been appointed as the coach for this edition of the Billie Jean King Cup Asia-Oceania Group-I.
PMDTA Secretary Abhishek Tamhane announced that tennis enthusiasts will enjoy free entry to the matches, promising thrilling encounters.
India will compete against New Zealand, Chinese Taipei, Korea Republic, Thailand, and Hong Kong China in a round-robin format, with the top two teams advancing to the playoffs scheduled for November.
Last year, India narrowly missed playoff qualification, finishing third behind China and South Korea. On the final day, they were just one win away from advancing but faced a close 2-1 defeat against New Zealand. With home advantage and fan support, the team is optimistic about their chances this time.
Captain Vishal Uppal shared insights into the team's preparations, stating, “We have commenced our training in Pune for the BJKC Asia Oceania Qualifying Group. Our primary focus this week is to ensure our players are healthy, fit, and sharp on the court. The team is united, and we are experiencing great energy during our practice sessions.”
He also expressed gratitude to AITA and MSLTA for providing sports physiotherapists Rutuja Kulkarni and Apurva Kulkarni to assist the team this year.
Indian squad for Billie Jean King Cup:
Players – Ankita Raina, Prarthana Thombare, Sahaja Yamalapalli, Shrivalli Bhamidipaty, Vaidehi Chaudhari, Maaya Rajeshwaran (Reserve).
Captain – Vishal Uppal.
Coach – Radhika Kanitkar Tulpule.
Physios – Rutuja Kulkarni and Apurva Kulkarni.