New Delhi: The executive committee of the All India Tennis Association (AITA), which met in the capital recently, praised Sania Mirza’s commitment during the Asia-Oceania Group I Fed Cup ties in Bangkok last month.

“Despite an injury, she was present in the Fed Cup for the full week and agreed to play the crucial doubles tie against Hong Kong China to help India retain its position in the Asia-Oceania Group,” said AITA secretary general Anil Khanna.

“In view of her exemplary commitment to represent Indian and her popularity,” Khanna said, “ India is hoping that the 2009 Fed Cup would be allotted to India.”

Khanna said the AITA would request the ITF for a wild card entry in the women’s doubles at the Beijing Olympics.

Agencies add: The AITA has also urged Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi to play together on the Tour to prepare for the Olympics.

“The members unanimously felt that Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi will be a formidable challenge and are a definite hope for a medal,” it said in a statement. “It was felt that both Leander and Mahesh should play some tour events together for preparation.”