BENGALURU (FIBA Women's Asia Cup 2017) - Golden oldie Anitha Paul Durai is ready to help drive a memorable promotion campaign when local favorites India hit the hardwood at the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup 2017.

Nobody knows what it feels like to wear the India jersey quite like the 32–year-old who first pulled the shirt over her head way back in 2001.

She really has seen it all, and now escaping from Division B with what would be a glorious move back to Division A is the top priority.

"Our chances of promotion to Division A are bright, because we have a good team with budding young talent," stated the Chennai native.

"We have prepared really hard, and we intend to put in our fullest effort."

Paul Durai is highly respected in India and is not only the sole player to have competed in eight straight editions of the tournament for her country, but was once the first Indian woman, along with Geethu Anna Rahul, to have played professionally in Thailand back in 2012.

The 32-year-old is also acutely aware of the wider significance that a positive campaign on home soil could have.

She added: "This FIBA Women’s Asia Cup means a lot to me personally, as we’re the hosts and it’s not often that you get to play such a tournament as the home team.

"I call on all the Indian basketball fans, especially those in Bengaluru, to come and fill the stands. We are the Indian national team after all. We can do with your support.

"This tournament is also significant for our nation, because doing well would help popularize women’s basketball in India and contribute to the development of the sport."

India will play against Sri Lanka and Uzbekistan in the opening group phase.

FIBA