Yuki Bhambri ruled out of India's tie against Uzbekistan in Davis Cup

The country's leading singles player Yuki Bhambri was today ruled out of the upcoming tie against Uzbekistan due to a knee injury.

The development on the first day of the preparatory camp means that at least one of the two reserve members -- either Leander Paes or Rohan Bopanna -- is certain to play. 

Non-playing captain Mahesh Bhupathi told PTI after the first practice session of the team that Yuki is out of picture and it is a big blow for the host



team.Today's session was attended by all members save Paes, who yesterday won Leon Challenger in Mexico and is expected to arrive India in the next couple of days.

Yuki is a vital cog in India's Davis Cup scheme and in his absence it will be extremely tough for the hosts to challenge the visitors, who will be led by World No 70 Denis Istomin.

The three-day India versus Uzbekistan Davis Cup Tie is scheduled to begin in Bengaluru this Friday.