NEW DELHI, September 28

The DSCL Open has come a long way since the time it began as a tournament primarily meant to serve just as an opportunity for players competing at the Delhi state level.

Over the years, the event has grown in stature simply because it has offered the best facilities and made sure the event is conducted in the best possible way. If, today, the event has got recognition from players across the border, it is because of the good word spread by players who have competed here in the past.

Vasudeva Reddy, the former National champion, still fondly talks of having played in every edition of this event. It is players like him who have made sure the DSCL has survived, and with a growing prize money to complement the effort players put in. This time, the men's winner stands to gain Rs 1,00,000 and that is a decent sum.

There are two schools of thought on the decision of the organisers to invite two Pakistan players - Aqeel Khan and Naomi - for the event beginning October 4 this year. But the most important reason for getting such players is to ensure the quality in the men's event does go up, and there have been several instances when players from overseas have taken part in the Nationals grasscourt tournament.

It is perhaps a growing sign of better sporting relationship between India and Pakistan that this time the DSCL Open will see Aqeel and Naomi compete. There is no doubt overall the Indians are ranked higher but some have in the past stayed away from the hardcourt Nationals for reasons unknown. It is a clear fact that everyone wants to see the National champion emerge from the best playing field, so if an Indian does beat the Pakistanis, then the purpose of having invited players from across the border would have been met.

Of course, there are some Indians who think there is no need for players coming from overseas simply because they feel their chances are getting marginalised. The DSCL Open has always strived that hope more than hype is the mantra, so if the National champion on October 9 does come in the form of a fresh face, in the men's section, be sure it would be an indicator that Indian tennis is on the rise and there is no dearth of talent.