Japan are on the verge of sealing a place in the Davis Cup World Group after winning both singles rubbers of day one of their tie against India.
Japan have not been in the World Group since 1985 but led by the brilliant Kei Nishikori they are just one step away from sealing their place. Yuichi Sugita was their hero on day one after taking down India's number one Somdev Devvarman in straight sets despite conceding a ranking difference of around sixty places.
Devvarman was bothered by an injury meaning that Nishikori will be strong favourite for their reverse singles clash if the tie is still live going into Sunday.
India suffered a further blow when they had to replace Leander Paes in the team meaning that will not be able to field their first choice doubles team for this must-win rubber. The presence of Mahesh Bhuphati means they will still be favourites but he faces a tough ask against a Japanese pair buoyed by their opening day success.
Nishikori has already beaten Rohan Bopanna handily on the singles court and Bopanna admitted after their match that he felt there was nothing he could have done.
"He is playing at a high level," he said. "He is really quick. I think he is playing like a top 30 player. He was fantastic."
