Bhupathi confirms, Leander undecided for Chennai Open

Chennai, Nov 30 (UNI) Mahesh Bhupathi, who had strung together some memorable wins along with his estranged partner Leander Paes here, has confirmed his participation in the doubles event of the Chennai Open 2007 to be held from January 1 to 7.

Releasing the field for the singles main draw, at a launch press conference here today, Mr Ravi Krishnan, Advisor, IMG, said Mahesh had confirmed his participation.

''I don't know who he is going to partner'', he said. His doubles partner would be known only later.

About Leander Paes, he said a decision has to be taken by the Indian icon himself as the Chennai Open coincides with the Hopman Cup at Perth to which India had qualified.

Leander had expressed his intentions to partner Sania Mirza in the doubles. The Indian team to play in Perth need not be the same that had won in Hyderabad last week, minus Leander.

''The All India Tennis Association (AITA) is yet to finalise the team. Whether Leander will be here or not, only he (Leander) has to decide on it'', Mr Ravi Krishnan said.

It may be recalled that the fairytale run of the celebrated Indian Duo started here in 1997 when Leander and Mahesh won the Chennai Open doubles title for three successive years and became the World Champions by winning two Grandslam events, and finishing runners up in two others in 2000.

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