Paradorn targets return

Written by Writer on Wednesday, November 12th, 2008

Paradorn targets return

TOR CHITTINAND

Former world number nine Paradorn Srichaphan is expected to make a return to competitive tennis when Thailand play Australia in a Davis Cup tie in March.

Paradorn has been sidelined because of a wrist injury since March last year.

The Asia/Oceania Zone Group I second-round encounter will be held at the National Tennis Development Centre, Muang Thong Thani from March 6-8.

Thailand lost 5-0 to Australia in Townsville in the competition earlier this year and Suwat Liptapanlop, president of the Lawn Tennis Association of Thailand (LTAT), said that with Paradorn’s comeback, Thailand would be able to stage a good fight against Australia.

“We are likely to have a full squad for the Davis Cup tie against Australia with Paradorn expected to return to help Thailand,” Suwat said.

“We were not at full strength when we were hammered by Australia in the previous meeting. This time, it should be a close match.”

Paradorn has been sidelined since March last year due to a wrist injury. He has recently competed in motorcycle racing.

The other Thai players against Australia will be Danai Udomchoke and twins Sonchat and Sanchai Ratiwatana.

Meanwhile, Paradorn and Danai will team up against legends Bjorn Borg and John McEnroe in an exhibition match which will be held at the National Tennis Development Centre on November 22.

It will be part of an encounter between Borg, 49, and McEnroe, 52. The match begins at 4pm and tickets at 1,000 and 2,000 baht are available at Thai Ticket Major outlets.

Bangkok Post
Wednesday November 12, 2008