Cambodian tennis team joins Asia Oceania Group III in Sri Lanka. PHOTO SUPPLIED
Cambodian tennis virtuosos, along with their coaches and delegates, have embarked on a journey from various locations towards Colombo, Sri Lanka. They set their sights on the prestigious Davis Cup Asia/Oceania Group III, slated to unfold from July 26 to 30.
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The Kingdom’s sporting gladiators, players Long Samneang and Khlaing Ponlork, left Cambodia’s shores on the eve of July 23. They were led by esteemed figures Euk Bun Leakhena and Chea Pov. An earlier contingent, featuring the formidable Tep Timothy, Leng Savinreach and coach Ani Rose Prian, set forth from the US on July 21, eager to join the contest.
According to Chea Pov, who shared his insights with The Post on July 24, the Davis Cup Asia/Oceania Group III comprises seven countries and one region. These include Iran, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Jordan, Vietnam Saudi Arabia, Pacific Oceania, and of course, Cambodia. This diverse array is neatly partitioned into two groups.
Pov further clarified that the division into pools would be decided by a draw. This significant event is planned for July 25, after a technical meeting. The matches are set to begin from July 26 to 29, leading to intense playoffs. The outcome will determine which three nations advance to World Group II, while the others compete for a position in the Asia/Oceania Group IV.
“Undeniably, the Asia/Oceania Group III is a pivotal match to decide who gets to play in World Group II in 2024. The teams we’re up against are formidable, unlike anything we’ve encountered before. Still, we’re fuelled by our ambition to secure a victory for Cambodia,” he proclaimed.
According to the regulations of the Group III tournament, the winners from each of the two pools will automatically qualify for World Group II 2024. Additionally, these countries will also compete for the Group III title.
The teams that finish second in both pools will vie for a third slot in World Group II 2024. At the same time, the teams that finish third and fourth will engage in a separate playoff. The winning team will have another shot at Group III next year, while the losing team will be relegated to the Davis Cup Asia/Oceania Group IV.
“Our players are brimming with ambition. They’ve worked tirelessly and competed relentlessly, and their current form is promising,” said Pov.
“We remain hopeful for victories against some nations. Yet we’re aware of the stiff competition, as our adversaries have also been prepping diligently for this tournament.”
