Wong likely to miss Davis Cup tie
Hong Kong ace Wayne Wong is unlikely to figure against Kuwait in the opening round of the Davis Cup Asia-Oceania Zone Group Two tie at Victoria Park next month. Wong, who is studying in the United States, has still not replied to inquiries from team officials as to whether he will be available for the February 6-8 encounter.
'This is his final year at Berkeley and I believe it might be difficult for him to get away,'' said non-playing captain Derek Ling yesterday. 'Without Wayne, our chances against Kuwait are 50-50.'
Hong Kong are second seeds in Group Two this year - a result of reaching the final last year before seeing the dream of re-entering Group One blown away by Taiwan. Hong Kong had earlier beaten Tajikistan and Lebanon in the first and second rounds respectively.
Ling said the presence of former Pakistani Davis Cup player Mohammed Siddiqui in the Kuwait team made them dangerous.
'He helped Kuwait gain promotion to Group Two last year and could be a danger. I believe he was playing for Pakistan in Group One back in 1999 so he must be good. We cannot take anything for granted,' said Ling.
With doubts over Wong's return, Ling will hope others can step into the breach. Ling could recall Australian Michael Brown, who last played for Hong Kong a couple of seasons ago. Brown will return to Hong Kong on Saturday and could be in line to play the number one singles slot if Wong is absent.
Among others in the preliminary squad are Yiu Hiu-tung, John Hui, Brian Hung, Lu Ling and Jack Hui.
'This is the official cut-off point. But I can make two late changes before the eve of the tie. So it gives me a bit of room and time regarding Wong,' said Ling.
If Hong Kong defeat Kuwait, they will face the winner of the China-Philippines clash in the second round in April. That tie is away.
