by Kristel Satumbaga
Jeson Patrombon and AJ Lim hope to draw first blood for the Philippine team when they battle Thai opponents today at the start of the Asia Oceania Group II Davis Cup in Nonthburi, Thailand.
Matches will be at the outdoor hardcourt of The National Tennis Development Center where the PH Cuppers seek to avenge previous two tie losses against Thai foes.
Patrombon first takes center stage at 10 a.m. Thailand time (11 a.m. in Manila) against Palaphoom Kovapitukted followed by Lim against Wishaya Trongcharoenchaikul.
Patrombon, who turned 27 last month, has been competing for the team since 2011 with 10 tie nominations and six of seven singles victories.
Palaphoom, for his part, joined the Thai squad last year with only three appearances.
Wins by Patrombon and Lim will give the PH team the needed edge in the best-of-five tie going to Saturday’s crucial doubles matches pitting Francis Casey Alcantara and Jurence Mendoza against veteran twins Sanchai and Sonchat Ratiwatana at 12 noon (1 p.m. in Manila).
After the doubles comes the reverse singles featuring Patrombon versus Wishaya, and Lim against Palaphoom.