After months of uncertainty and resistance, the Indian tennis team has finally arrived in Islamabad to participate in the crucial Davis Cup Group I tie against Pakistan at the Sports Complex Grass Court on February 3-4.
The All-Indian Tennis Association (AITA) attempted various measures to strip Pakistan of its hosting rights. Initially, the AITA approached the Davis Cup Committee and later the Chair of the Independent Tribunal, seeking to relocate the tie to a neutral venue.
Despite their efforts, these appeals were unsuccessful, leaving the Indian team with two choices – either to travel to Pakistan for the tie or risk facing penalties from the International Tennis Federation (ITF), including fines and possible relegation.
Faced with the prospect of punitive measures, the Indian team eventually opted to comply with the ITF regulations and arrived in Islamabad late Sunday evening.
According to reports, this marks a significant victory for Pakistan as it is the second time in a few months that the country has successfully countered India’s arguments on an international platform.
The Davis Cup Committee rejected India’s concerns and affirmed Pakistan as the host nation. Subsequently, the Chair of the Independent Tribunal upheld the decision, dismissing AITA’s apprehensions.
The Indian contingent consists of five players, two physios, a coach, a manager, and a coordinator. Upon their arrival in Pakistan, the team was welcomed by officials from the Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF), including Secretary Col (retd) Gul Rehman. The upcoming Davis Cup tie now holds heightened significance given the diplomatic and logistical challenges that preceded the Indian team’s arrival in Pakistan.
