'Sania has acquired a lot of depth in her game'

'Somewhere along the way a lot of Martina’s skills rubbed off on Sania.'

'She couldn’t make it big in the singles because she lacked the physicality to handle the pressure.'

As Sania Mirza and Martina Hingis stand on the threshold of a unique milestone, former India players discuss the Hyderabadi's contribution in the all-conquering partnership with Bikash Mohapatra  It's an incredible run of results, in every which way.

Sania Mirza and Martina Hingis, dubbed 'SanTina' by media and fans alike, are going through a purple patch. Their title win in St Petersburg last week, coming close on the heels of the triumph at the Australian Open, extended their winning streak to 40 matches.

"What do I say? I am numb. To win 40 matches on the trot is a great achievement," Enrico Piperno, India's former Fed Cup captain, told Rediff.com.

"Even Sania, in her wildest of dreams, wouldn't have thought about it. She has clearly raised the bar.

"For people who have been involved at the various stages of her career, it gives us an amazing feeling," added the eminent coach who nurtured Leander Paes in his formative year.

Former India Davis Cup captain Nandal Bal concurred.

"A lot has been said about it already. Obviously, it's a fantastic run of results.

"But their success doesn't surprise me," said the veteran coach, before proceeding to elaborate on Sania's contribution to the partnership.

"Everyone is aware that Hingis is a fabulous doubles player. So, in the initial phase of the partnership, many were of the opinion that Sania simply got lucky (in finding a perfect partner).

"Somewhere along the way a lot of Martina's skills rubbed off on Sania. To put in another way, in the last few months Sania has picked up a lot from her illustrious partner.

IMAGE: Sania Mirza waves to the crowd after a victory at the WTA Finals in Singapore. Photograph: Julian Finney/Getty Images

"Martina playing well is not surprising, but for Sania to learn so much, so soon, and contribute is fabulous. Now she contributes a lot more than she used to. In fact, I would say she is as strong as Hingis from the back court, if not better. It's a partnership of equals now.