Two of India’s top doubles players will take on each other in a rare India vs India clash at Roland Garros in Paris. 84th ranked Balaji, who’s playing with Mexican Reyes-Varela, got into the doubles draw at the eleventh hour and scored two impressive wins to secure his spot in the 3rd round.

On the other hand, 2nd seeds Bopanna and Ebden had a hard-fought 1st round win against alternates Orlando Luz and Marcelo Zormann in the 1st round, before receiving a walkover from Baez/Seyboth Wild in the 2nd round.

Speaking on the prospect of facing Bopanna, Balaji said – “He’s been a mentor for all the players. But the thing is I have nothing to lose. I was not even in the tournament (two days ago) and now I am in the 3rd round. I am just going to play free. I respect him a lot but it’s a match. So I am going to give my best. Hope the better team wins.”