Raven flying high as he prepares for Turkey

SOUTH AFRICA’S tennis ace Raven Klaasen said there is nothing stopping the Davis Cup team from conquering the Euro/Africa Group 2 tie this weekend in Turkey.

Klaasen told the South African media via a teleconference yesterday that from where he is seated, it is all systems go and he cannot wait to go all out and help the team be in a better position to win.

While Klaasen has admitted to some pressure on his side as the top-ranked doubles player in the team, he also believes the team is capable of beating the Turkish side.

“I will be giving my all on Saturday.

“The preparations are going on well and we knew we were going to play indoors and I think that is good for us.

“The match court, an indoor hard court is a reasonable medium to fast paced surface which is suiting the South African players, so it’s an advantage,” Klaasen said.

“We have to ensure that we adapt to the conditions because as soon we are comfortable then we will play good tennis.

“Indoors is really good because it allows you to play at a high level and I love that so I am looking forward to the weekend.

“Although the doubles is only one point out of five in a tie, a win will mean South Africa only need to win two of four other points so it’s very important and I have to be at my best.

“A lot is expected from me and I will make sure I give it my all.

“This is positive pressure because when people expect so much from you – it means you are doing well so I have to up my level as well.”

Klaasen said the team’s captain Earl Grainger has not yet decided on his doubles partner and that, that decision will be made today even as they are still acclimatising and working on form.

Klaasen further said they will be strategising on how to “attack” Turkish side as well as polishing up on their tactics.

“I don’t know much about the Turkish players. I only know the No 1 player and he is handy but my teammates say they know the rest of the Turkish team. “We will do some homework and watch them practice to prepare accordingly.

“I think South Africa has a balanced team.

“The Turkish team is not as balanced as we are and if they will call on their No 1 to play all three rubbers,” he said.