The Sunday Mail
VETERAN Zimbabwe tennis layer Wayne Black has availed himself for selection ahead of July’s crunch Davis Cup tie against Moldova.
The Euro/Africa Group II relegation tie is set for Harare Sports Club from July 17-19.
Black, who interestingly describes his decision to come out of retirement as ill-advised after the 1-4 loss to Bosnia Herzegovina in March, insists he will only act as cover. The 41-year-old believes it’s time for youngsters to shine on the international stage.
“I’ve been practising and playing with my sister so as to remain sharp. I am going to play as cover if someone gets injured; I am definitely not first choice,” said Black.
Tennis Zimbabwe have hinted at throwing the veteran into battle because Black remains the country’s best doubles player despite the ageing legs.
TZ convener of selectors Tanya Chinamo also hints at the likelihood of retaining the same squad that fell 1-4 to Bosnia Herzegovina.
“As selectors we are meeting at the end of this month to select the Davis Cup team. We are highly likely to select the same team that played against Bosnia Herzegovina.
“As far as we are concerned, Wayne still remains one of our strongest doubles players, he is our doubles specialist and the other guys are good at singles,” he said.
The Zimbabwe team, comprising Black, Takanyi Garanganga, Mark Fynn and Benjamin Lock, went down 1-4 to Bosnia Herzegovina and have to beat Moldova to avoid relegation.
Moldova will also be playing for survival after succumbing to an identical defeat to Hungary in March.
Tennis Zimbabwe needs US$60 000 to successfully host the Davis Cup clash and association president Regis Bhunu has said they are a third to their target.
“So far what we have is way short of what we need. We have raised US$20 000 with the help of various stakeholders, but there is still more needed. We are appealing to various companies for assistance,” he said.
A large chunk of the budget will be directed towards refurbishing the venue to meet international standards.
“During our last match we were advised to have an office for officials and a players’ lounge.
“There is also need for fibre connections for Internet connectivity; so, clearly there is still more work to be done for the venue to meet international standards,” said Bhunu.
