Paradorn, who has crashed out in four consecutive first round matches since January, is hoping to snap his losing streak. He has a 2-0 head-to-head record over the 72nd ranked Moodie.

The Thai, who slipped to No 61 this week in the world rankings, beat the South African 6-3 6-2 in London two years ago and 6-3 7-6 in Washington last year.

But a tough task awaits Paradorn in the second round. World No 20 Robby Ginepri of the US, the 18th seed, received a first round bye. Paradorn has yet to beat the American in three attempts.

Meanwhile, Thai No 2 Danai Udomchoke has decided not to take part in Thailand's Davis Cup second round tie against Japan next month and instead focus on his personal goals.

After losing in two first round matches in France last week, Danai announced he would skip the Davis Cup tie from April 7-9 to play challenger events in America.

Danai is determined to break into the top 100 for the first time before the French Open in May so he will not have to compete in the qualifying rounds. A few weeks ago, the 25-year-old came close to realising his dream by reaching a career best at No 104.

But poor results in France slowed his campaign. He fell to No 112 this week on the ATP rankings. It will be the first time he has missed a Davis Cup tie since 1998.

The withdrawal of Danai paves the way for newly-crown national champion Attapol Ritthiwat-tanapong, who will fill the vacancy of the national team which comprises Paradorn Srichaphan and the twins, Sonchat and Sanchai Ratiwattana.

Lerpong Amsa-ngiam

The Nation