Pablo Cuevas, meanwhile, will be looking to inspire some confidence in a relatively novice Uruguayan side. The 33-year old seasoned campaigner, known for his splendid one-handed backhand and clay court exploits can however, surprise even the best in the world on his given day. And in a format that only features 3 matches (2 singles and a doubles) that might just be the one thing that sways the tie either way.
On paper though, Japan remains to be the only real threat for Spain with Nishikori being the key. If he were to muster a win over a very solid-looking Rafael Nadal, the Japanese bench would take confidence from a couple of good youngsters capable of playing very good doubles matches. That remains a long shot nonetheless considering Spain’s own prowess over the doubles category with the likes of Marcel Granollers and Feliciano Lopez.
What could spin into an interesting battle is the fight for the second spot in the group with Japan, Georgia, and Uruguay looking every bit capable of upsetting the other to take up that all important spot. It is pertinent to note that aside from the six group winners, the two next best teams will also qualify for the knockout stage based on overall performance. The three remaining teams will be eagerly vying for that spot.
Prediction: Spain to top the group, Uruguay or Japan a distant second.
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