Billie Jean King Cup: The field of sports isn't untouched by technology, as modern innovations continue to reshape the way games are played, judged, and experienced. With every passing day, the focus remains on reducing human error and ensuring fairness.
Among many such game-changing innovations, the Hawk-Eye technology and electronic line-calling system have made significant strides in tennis as well. Indian cricket fans are well acquainted with Hawk-Eye and ball-tracking technology, which, much like tennis line-calling, trace the ball's path and deviation to decide on leg-before-wicket appeals.
Technology Takes Centre Court
From contentious line calls to heated arguments with line judges, tennis has long battled human error in officiating. To address this, the Karnataka
State Lawn Tennis Association (KSLTA) has introduced both the Hawk-Eye system and an electronic line-calling system for the upcoming ties in Bengaluru.
The event, set to be held at the SM Krishna Stadium from November 14-16, marks the first-ever use of such advanced officiating technology at a tennis event in India.
This major upgrade means there will be no human line judges at the three-day event, similar to the system used at Wimbledon 2025. However, the chair umpires will continue to oversee matches and deliver on-court rulings.
How Does the Hawk-Eye and Electronic Line Calling Work?
The electronic line-calling system uses a network of cameras and computer algorithms that automatically track the ball's path and determine whether it lands in or out. The Hawk-Eye system, on the other hand, employs multiple high-speed cameras to generate a 3D model of the ball's trajectory, an innovation that has become standard at Grand Slam and ATP/WTA Tour events.
"This is the first time a tennis tournament in India will use both the Hawk-Eye and electronic line-calling systems. It will be a unique experience for spectators to watch matches without line umpires," a KSLTA official told myKhel.
The Hawk-Eye setup has been sourced by the tournament organisers, while KSLTA has independently installed the electronic line-calling infrastructure, underscoring their commitment to modernising the sport's officiating standards in India.
India's Squad and Group G Draw
The Indian team, featuring Sahaja Yamalapalli, Shrivalli Bhamidipaty, Ankita Raina, Riya Bhatia, and doubles specialist Prarthana Thombare, will compete in Group G alongside Slovenia and the Netherlands. The group winner will advance to the 2026 Billie Jean King Cup Qualifiers. Vishal Uppal will lead the squad as captain, while Radhika Kanitkar will serve as coach. India opens its campaign against two-time finalists Netherlands on November 15.
The Dutch team features World No. 87 Suzan Lamens and veteran Elise Tamaela (41), who adds valuable doubles experience. Their inclusion highlights the Netherlands' intent to dominate across all formats.
High Stakes for India in Bengaluru
For India, this playoff tie carries immense significance. Having qualified for the Billie Jean King Cup Playoffs for the first time since 2021, the hosts are eyeing a berth in the 2026 Qualifiers. Under the new format, the playoffs feature three teams per group instead of traditional home-and-away ties.
Each team will contest two singles and one doubles rubber (if required) against every opponent. Only the group winner will advance to the next stage, while the remaining two teams will return to their respective Regional Group I events in 2026.
7,000 Fans Expected at SM Krishna Stadium
Being the host nation in Group G, India will look to make the most of its home advantage at the S.M. Krishna Tennis Stadium, which boasts a capacity of over 7,000 spectators. With the backing of a passionate home crowd and cutting-edge technology ensuring fair play, the stage is set for a landmark moment in Indian tennis.
India's No. 1 player Sahaja Yamalapalli said she's eagerly looking forward to the energy of the home crowd. "It's going to be amazing! Playing at home, hearing the crowd cheer for you, feeling that energy - it's something I've missed. I can't wait to represent India and hopefully give the fans something to cheer about. There's no better motivation than that," the 25-year-old told myKhel.
Meanwhile, ahead of the tournament, former international chess player and FYERS American Gambits co-owner Prachura P.P. visited the Indian team at the S.M. Krishna Tennis Stadium during their final preparations for the high-stakes World Group qualification tie.
During the visit, Prachura exchanged the FYERS American Gambits jersey with Team India captain Vishal Uppal, symbolising mutual respect and sporting camaraderie
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