Patrombon eyed for Phl-Japan tie

MANILA, Philippines - Jeson Patrombon, who recently cracked the elite World Top 10 rankings, may yet suit up for the Phl Davis Cup team playing powerhouse Japan in their Asia-Oceania Zone Group I first round tie slated March 4-6 in Cebu.

Randy Villanueva, the country’s Davis Cup administrator, said they’re hoping the 17-year-old Patrombon could still play side by side with Phl standouts Cecil Mamiit and Treat Huey against the favored Japanese even though the Philippine Tennis Association had already announced the composition of the team.

“There is still a strong chance Jeson Patrombon could play for the Davis Cup team in our first round tie with the Japanese,” said Villanueva.

Aside from the seasoned duo of Mamiit and Huey, the Philta also nominated former Phl No. 1 Johnny Arcilla and veteran local campaigner Elbert Anasta.

Participating teams, however, could still make lineup changes before the actual competition.

“All the teams are allowed to change rosters one day before the tie or one hour before the draw so we still could insert Jeson in the team in the last minute,” said Villanueva.

Patrombon’s possible inclusion to the team came about after the Iligan City teener made it to the quarterfinals of the Australian Juniors Open, the best finish by any Filipino in a Grand Slam singles event in recent years.

The feat enabled Patrombon to land in the Top 10 in world rankings, securing the No. 9 position, the highest by a Filipino netter since Felix Barrientos made it to No. 4 in the 1980s.

However, schedule of international tournaments may prevent Patrombon from joining the Davis Cup team. The Filipino netter is currently campaigning overseas in his last year in the international junior circuit.

While Patrombon has a chance to make the squad, talented Fil-German Marc Sieber, currently competing in Germany, is out of the selection because the reigning Philippine Columbian Association champion has yet to secure a Philippine passport.

“Maybe in other ties or international tournaments he could play,” said Villanueva.

Mamiit and Huey are due to arrive Feb. 18 and train with the local-based teammates before leaving for Cebu. The Phl squad will have the chance to test the brand-new Plantation Bay claycourt ahead of the Japanese team, which is scheduled to arrive on Feb. 26, according to Villanueva.

Villanueva also said the Phl Cuppers will fly to Bohol for a couple of exhibition matches.

The Filipinos are seeking to get into the next round with a victory over Japan.