Bhupathi drops bombshell, says he is not available for country

Mumbai, Oct 3 (UNI) Indian doubles specialist Mahesh Bhupathi dropped a bombshell stating that he no longer wants to play for the country.

''I have spoken to the Indian tennis federation and they have accepted my decision, the doubles multiple Grand Slam winner said after winning the Kingfisher Airlines Open tennis doubles crown along with Croat Mario Ancic.

Bhupathi made it clear that he would not be available for the country, though he would still play on the ATP Tour and the Grand Slams.

Bhupathi had been expected to partner Davis Cup captain Leander Paes at the Asian Games in Doha in December and defend the doubles crown.

Bhupathi had felt let down by the Indian federation when they paired the top women player Sania Mirza along with Leander Paes for the mixed doubles at Doha, while he was paired with the lower-ranked Shikha Oberoi.

''Elaborating on his decision, he said it was not a sudden one but various factors were taking into consideration,'' said Bhupathi, who has won 10 grand slam doubles and mixed doubles crowns.

''I needed to cut down on my playing and prioritise on the men's doubles at the Australian Open, one title that I have not won.'' ''Two weeks at Doha is not the ideal preparation for the Australian Open,'' added Bhupathi, who has won four men's doubles grand slams.

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