MANILA, Philippines — Johnny Arcilla hopes to provide the experience and poise when the Philippines faces fancied Thailand in the 2018 Davis Cup Asia-Oceania Group II tie starting tomorrow at the Philippine Columbian Association clay courts in Paco, Manila.
The 38-year-old Arcilla will also be trying to recall the form that netted him a record eight PCA Open titles as the hosts try to get back at the Thais and avenge their 0-5 setback in the same stage in Bangkok last year.
“He knows the shell-clay courts of the PCA like the back of his hand,” said Phl Davis Cup administrator Martin Misa. “He’s the winningest player in the PCA Open so we are banking a lot on him.”
Francis Casey Alcantara also likes their chances with his doubles partner.
“He’s the legend in this court so we hope we can use it to our advantage,” said Alcantara.
Even AJ Lim admitted that he got valuable tips from the country’s erstwhile No. 1 player.
“He gave us tips during our almost three weeks of training, so we are ready for the Thais now,” said Lim who is likely be nominated to play in the singles events.