Non-playing captain S.P. Misra will have to consider whether Bopanna can physically shoulder such a huge responsibility.

The other option is to make a much fitter Somdev Devvarman play the doubles. India's No.1 singles player has been playing doubles on and off on the Tour. Yuki can play in the singles only if the tie is decided on the second day itself or India sew it up, winning the first singles on the final day.

All India Tennis Association (AITA) secretary general, Anil Khanna in a statement Tuesday confirmed the withdrawal of the veteran Davis Cupper.

'Leander Paes has informed me this morning that his right arm is injured and he will therefore, not be able to be part of the Davis Cup team playing against South Africa from Sep 18-20,' Khanna stated.

The draw for the Davis Cup tie will be held September 16 in Johannesburg. India would be aiming to qualify for World Group after 11 years.