Possibly, their last shot at collective glory

Nandita Sridhar The time has come for Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi to simplify their presence in Beijing, focussing solely on an Olympic medal. In many ways, the approaching climax will be a relief. One dreams of a compensatory end to the climate of acrimony built over the years — a climax almost as spectacular as the spat itself, but there’s very little to suggest a fairytale finish. What can one expect from the pair? It would seem a touch insular to draw it out merely as a battle within themselves as individuals and between each other. The Olympics doubles field is denied the potent combinations of a Grand Slam draw, but the Bryan brothers and teams of Czechs and Slovaks who emerge when national glory beckons, are experienced and in rhythm. Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal will partner their less fancied countrymen,... [read full story]