The Indian tennis team has landed in Islamabad to participate in the crucial Davis Cup Group I tie against Pakistan, scheduled to take place on February 3-4 at the Sports Complex Grass Court.
This development follows months of uncertainty, reluctance, and intense efforts by the All-Indian Tennis Association (AITA) to shift the venue to a neutral location.
The AITA left no stone unturned in its attempt to deprive Pakistan of the hosting rights, initially approaching the Davis Cup Committee and later seeking intervention from the Chair of the Independent Tribunal.
Despite their persistent efforts, the AITA's appeals were rejected, leaving them with only two options – either to travel to Pakistan or face the consequences of forfeiting the tie and incurring fines from the International Tennis Federation (ITF).
Fearing the financial implications and possible relegation, the Indian tennis contingent ultimately chose to make the journey to Pakistan, arriving in the federal capital late Sunday evening.
This decision marks a historic moment, as Pakistan successfully defended its hosting rights against India's opposition on an international platform for the second time in a matter of months.
The Davis Cup Committee (DCC) played a pivotal role in rejecting India's concerns, asserting Pakistan's right to host the tie. The subsequent affirmation by the Chair of the Independent Tribunal further solidified the decision, dismissing AITA's reservations.
The visiting Indian squad comprises five players, accompanied by two physiotherapists, a coach, a manager, and a coordinator. The Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF) extended a warm welcome to the Indian team upon their arrival in the country, with Secretary Col (retd) Gul Rehman and other federation officials present to greet the players.
