Bitterness mars celebrations, Lee-Hesh never to share court again

Doha, Dec 13 (UNI) India, in all probability, has seen the ''Indian Express'' pair of Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi sharing the court for the last time before parting their ways forever.

At a time when they should have been celebrating their second successive men's doubles Gold in the Asian Games, the Lee-Hesh pair apparently left the arena with bitter feelings for each.

Amid reports that Paes has reportedly announced his decision not to play with him again, a hurt Bhupathi said, ''I'm told by the TV journalists that Leander doesn't want to play with me anymore. If that's the case, I'm not going to beg either. And you people forget about winning the doubles Gold in Beijing Olympics.

''If it's to be the end of the Indian Express pair, so be it.

It's sad, especially at a time when we should be celebrating.

Anyway, I'm happy at least we finished on a high,'' said a visibly hurt Bhupathi.

''We have broken all Davis Cup records and wanted to play till I'm 50. But this time I was not keen on playing the tournament but was coaxed into taking part.

''I have not been treated well here, the coach (Nandan Bal) and Leander have questioned my loyalty and fitness and the comments made before the event here was just uncalled for,'' Bhupathi said.

UNI HSB AY KN2302