Notwithstanding the calm exterior, the 184-ranked Istomin does realise that Uzbekistan’s burden mainly rests on his shoulders, making it clear he was fully prepared to play on all three days of the tie that begins on Friday.

India’s non-playing captain Leander Paes, though, believes his bunch is ready as well. “We’ve had a few obstacles, but they have been overcome. Everyone is ready and fit. I am clear in my mind about what to do, but I still have to talk to a couple of people before making a final choice,” he says.

He claimed his final decision about the singles players for the tie was ‘tough’, but it is unlikely that Rohan Bopanna and Prakash Amritraj will be relegated from their positions as India’s spearheads, as it is a strong singles challenge the Uzbeks present.

Prakash, in particular, has a fine game for the grasscourts, and the Indian contingent would breathe a sigh of relief since the LA-based player has recovered from his upset tummy.

Seen with the Indian Davis Cup squad after a considerable lapse of time, Mahesh Bhupathi would hope to continue his good form after a semi-final appearance at the Australian Open, a thought echoed by Paes. “Mahesh had good results at the Australian Open, and he brings a lot of experience and knowledge to the team.