Maharashtra Open: Players list to be released this week

The draw for the Maharashtra Open will be released this week, while a source close to MSLTA confirmed that two to three top international players in the top-20 have tied up with the ATP 250 event.

The Maharashtra Open will be held in place of the Chennai Open, which was axed after the tournament organiser IMG (R) cancelled its contract with the Tamil Nadu Tennis Association earlier this year. (File Image)

When the decision to move Chennai Open to Pune – renamed as Maharashtra Open – was announced, there were speculations as to how international players will fare in cold conditions, leading up to the sultry Australian Open.

However, the wait is finally over as the Maharashtra State Lawn Tennis Association (MSLTA) is set to divulge the players’ list this week.

“We are planning to announce the names within the next two or three days. Now, we are all busy with the WTA Mumbai Open. All our communications will start this week,” Sunder Iyer, Honorary Secretary, MSLTA told  Sportstar  on Tuesday.

READ: Chennai Open axed

It is learnt that Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis will reveal the list. “We are actually waiting for him. He has already promised us time. He will make the official announcement,” added Iyer.

A source close to MSLTA confirmed that two to three top international players (within Rank 20) have tied up with the ATP 250 event.

IMG (R), the owners of the event, cancelled their contract (which was extended till 2019) with Tamil Nadu Tennis Association earlier this year owing to sponsorship issues. The current deal with MSLTA stands for five years.