Davis Cup 2026: Sumit Nagal to Open for India vs Netherlands; Sriram Balaji Returns for Crucial Doubles

BENGALURU, Feb 6 — The official draw for the Davis Cup World Group Qualifiers Round 1 was conducted today at the SM Krishna Tennis Stadium, setting the stage for a high-octane clash between India and the Netherlands.

In a major tactical update following the draw ceremony, veteran doubles specialist N. Sriram Balaji has officially been named in the playing squad, replacing Rithvik Bollipalli to partner Yuki Bhambri in Sunday’s doubles rubber.

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The Draw: Nagal to Lead the Charge

India’s top-ranked singles player, Sumit Nagal, will spearhead the home challenge. Nagal, who has been working through a hip injury, declared himself match-ready after rigorous practice sessions in Bengaluru. He will face the Netherlands’ Guy den Ouden in the opening match on Saturday.

The second singles rubber features Dhakshineswar Suresh, who made a massive impression during India’s 2025 win over Switzerland. ^{He faces a stern test against the highest-ranked singles player in the tie, Jesper de Jong (World No. 88).}

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Official Match Schedule & Order of Play

Day 1: Saturday, Feb 7 (Singles)

• Match 1 (4:00 PM IST): Sumit Nagal (IND) vs. Guy den Ouden (NED)
• Match 2: Dhakshineswar Suresh (IND) vs. Jesper de Jong (NED)

Day 2: Sunday, Feb 8 (Doubles & Reverse Singles)

• Match 3 (2:00 PM IST): Yuki Bhambri / N. Sriram Balaji (IND) vs. Sander Arends / David Pel (NED)
• Match 4 (Reverse Singles): Sumit Nagal (IND) vs. Jesper de Jong (NED)
• Match 5 (Reverse Singles): Dhakshineswar Suresh (IND) vs. Guy den Ouden (NED)

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The Return of Balaji: Good Decision?

While Rithvik Bollipalli was initially favored for his “deuce-court” specialization, the team management has opted for the experience of Sriram Balaji.

Balaji’s inclusion provides India with a seasoned campaigner who understands the nuances of playing at 900 meters above sea level. The Bengaluru altitude causes the ball to fly faster and bounce higher—conditions that Balaji’s big-serving game is built to exploit.

The Stakes

This tie is a gateway to the Davis Cup Qualifiers Round 2 in September. A victory would mark one of India’s most significant achievements since the competition’s format change in 2019. Despite the Netherlands being the heavy favorites and 2024 finalists, the absence of their top stars (Griekspoor and Van de Zandschulp) has opened a narrow window of opportunity for the Indian squad.

Photos from the draw ceremony (Credits – Chenthil Mohan)