LAWN TENNIS

Waikato Times, Volume 119, Issue 18898, 29 May 1936, Page 8

LAWN TENNIS

THE AUSTRALIAN TEAM. MATCHES AT PHILADELPHIA. —— CONFIDENT OF SUCCESS. United Press Assn—Elem Tel. Copyright (Received May 29. 3.15 pm.) ' PHILADELPHIA, May ‘2B. In an Interview Sproule discussed the condition of the Australian team and the prospects of its success in the matches at. the week—end. He dismissed the injury to MeGrath‘s hand as not of an). genuine importance. It is quite healed. 0n the occasion of the last visit to Philadelphia Crawford had been adversely affected by the tremendous heat. which, with an attack of asthma. proved extremely enervating. and was responsible for his inadequate showing in matches. Sproule said that Crawford is completely free of any signs 01' asthma. lle is in splendid health. and has acclimatised himself exceptionally well. “As a matter of fact the entire team has conditioned very satisfac—torily." said Sproule. “and they are unquestionably at the top of their form. The long period of training in Philadelphia has, I feel, been of the greatest value.” A Little Variety. Asked to explain whether any special theory was behind the employment. of Richards as playing coach, he said: "It 'was only for the pur—pose of introducing a little variety, and in no way meant that. we were not satisfied with the manner in which our team was shaping. It just gave them a little change in the kind of competition they were getting and toned them up a little." Sproule sent the ~follmvins mes—sage:——-“ You may say that the team is ready. They are keen for the matches. and everything gives us eontldence that we will give a good account ’Ol ourselves." The team will rest for a few days after the final, and then proceed to New York, whence they will sail on June 5. Sproule indicated that Whether they will return to the United States for the national singles will depend upon the outcome of the week-end matches.