ISLAMABAD: The Indian non-playing captain for the Davis Cup World Group I Play-Off against Pakistan, Zeeshan Ali, on Friday expressed his appreciation for the warm welcome and hospitality extended to the Indian team upon their arrival in Islamabad. Ali, in a pre-event press conference held at a local hotel, commended the gracious reception they received.
“There were certain concerns before coming here, but from the moment we landed, we received great hospitality and a warm welcome in Pakistan. We have been very well taken care of since we arrived,” stated Ali.
Reflecting on the upcoming Davis Cup contest, scheduled to take place on the grass courts of Pakistan Sports Complex in Islamabad on Saturday and Sunday, Ali mentioned that while India had won the last tie against Pakistan held in Kazakhstan, this would be a new and unpredictable competition.
“Our job is to come and play tennis. Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF) has made the best arrangements. We are also hoping to visit the city (Islamabad) soon. There should be a bilateral tennis series between Pakistan and India,” he added.
Pakistan Eying Victory Against India in Davis Cup Tie
Meanwhile, Pakistani tennis star Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi acknowledged that the competition against India would be tough but expressed confidence in Pakistan’s capabilities, especially on their home turf.
“All teams that came here in the past for Davis Cup tie were stronger than us but we prevailed against them. Though the Indian team plays well on grass courts, I believe we will have a slight edge against them,” said Qureshi, who will be participating in the singles competition in the Davis Cup.
Qureshi stated, “We are fully focused on the tie and are looking forward to emerging victorious.” He also emphasized the importance of keeping politics separate from sports, citing the previous cricket tours between the two nations as examples of sports diplomacy. “Our cricket team visited India. Now, the Indian tennis team is in Pakistan for the Davis Cup,” he added.
“I hope the Indian cricket team will also come to Pakistan to play the Champions Trophy”, he said adding that Pakistan sent a message of peace when its team toured India for the Cricket World Cup.
Pakistan’s tennis veteran Aqeel Khan shared that the players underwent rigorous training for the event and were eager to deliver strong performances. Captain Mohammad Abid affirmed that the team’s preparation was complete, expressing determination to deliver their best during the competition.
As per the draws revealed after the press conference, the singles competitions on Saturday will feature Aisam vs Ramkumar Ramanathan and Aqeel vs Sriram Balaji. The doubles match on Sunday will see Pakistan’s Muzammil Murtaza and Barkatullah facing Yuki Bhambri and Saketh Myneni. The tie will conclude with two additional singles matches on the same day.
The Indian Davis Cup team, comprising five players and support staff, arrived in Islamabad for the all-important tie, marking their first visit to Pakistan for the event since 1964.
