The assurance was made PH coach Chris Cuarto Monday, saying that Mamiit and Huey, who are based in the United States, will be back with the squad when it squares off with New Zealand in the relegation tie in July.

“Sure yon,” said Cuarto.

Mamiit and Huey both left for the United States and Japan, respectively, Monday after the squad lost a heartbreaking 1-3 decision to Japan over the weekend at the Plantation Bay and Resort Spa in Lapu Lapu City.

Cuarto attributed Japan’s victory to the exposures gained by its players by playing in various tournaments.

He said the Japanese played at least 20 to 30 tournaments a year, thus giving them the advantage,

“It was evident on how the games were played. It could have gone the other way, but it wasn’t meant for us,” Cuarto said. “We are actually at par with them. Nakita namang dikit ang laban, but when it comes to the crucial parts, doon nakita yung experience ng Japanese from their wide foreign exposure.”

Officials of the Philippine Tennis Association are looking at the possibility of tapping the services of Fil-German Marc Sieber for the country’s match against the Kiwis.

Kristel Satumbaga, Manila Bulletin