New Delhi, April 6 -- India's non-playing captain Vishal Uppal has acknowledged the challenge posed by a strong group in this year's Billie Jean King Cup Asia/Oceania, stressing that while the competition is tough, his team will take it head-on.

Speaking at the DLTA Complex to reporters, Uppal noted, "It's a very tough group. New Zealand is strong, and so is Indonesia. Korea and Thailand have always been challenging, and we can't take Mongolia lightly either, as they have earned their place in Group 1. We have a lot of respect for every team, but we definitely don't fear them and will be ready to take them on head-on."

Uppal also highlighted the difference from last year's encounter, when India lost to New Zealand in the playoffs. "This...