India defeats Pakistan in Davis Cup Group I play-off [Update on post#16]

[BouncerGuy]

Will this affect the BCCI stand? Champions Trophy 2025 is also scheduled in Pakistan.

------------------------------------------------

AITA loses appeal in ITF tribunal, Indian Davis Cup team will have to travel to Pakistan

NEW DELHI: The ITF tribunal has dismissed AITA's concerns about security risks for the Indian Davis Cup team during the World Group I Play-off tie in Islamabad. The decision opens the path for the Indian tennis team to visit Pakistan for the first time in 60 years.

If the Indian team now opts not to travel to Pakistan, the host country would be granted the victory, leading to the Indian team's relegation to World Group II.

The last visit by an Indian Davis Cup team to Pakistan dates back to 1964 when they secured a 4-0 victory against the hosts.

Anil Dhupar, the Secretary General of the All India Tennis Association (AITA), confirmed to PTI that the ITF has turned down their appeal.

"I have got a message that AITA's appeal has been rejected by the ITF Tribunal. We will approach Sports Ministry on Monday and seek guidance if we will send a team," Dhupar told PTI.

AITA had recently announced a five-member squad for the February 3-4 World Group I play-off tie and said that if ITF rejects its appeal, it will send the Davis Cup team to Pakistan.

AITA's request for a neutral venue was rejected by the 15-member Davis Cup Committee (DCC) and later the national federation approached the ITF Tribunal.

"The DCC's decision to hold the tie in Pakistan has solid grounds and it is pertinent on all the nations to visit the venue (country) selected by the DCC for the Davis Cup ties," the Tribunal said, Pakistan media reported.

AITA's contention was that India should not be treated like other countries since the bilateral relations are tense between the two nations.

AITA had also contended that Pakistan will have its General Election on February 8, so the Indian team should not travel.

The DCC had ruled that there is no such situation in Pakistan where an Indian team cannot travel and participate in the Davis Cup tie.

"Pakistan has hosted some important Davis Cup ties just recently in a successful manner so there is no solid grounds as to why Pakistan cannot host the tie against India in a befitting manner.

"Maintaining law and order is a sole responsibility of the host nation. Indian team should rest assured that required security measures will be in order for their travel and participation," the committee had opined.

India's top players Sumit Nagal and Sasikumar Mukund have pulled out of the tie, where the winning team will ensure its stay in World Group I for the rest of the 2024 season.

Ramkumar Ramanathan, N Sriram Balaji, Yuki Bhambri, Niki Poonacha and Saketh Myneni were named in the Indian team. Digvijay Pratap Singh, who made his debut against Morocco in India's last Davis Cup assignment in Lucknow in September, was named as a reserve player in the squad.

India were drawn to meet Pakistan in Pakistan in 2019 also but the ITF had then moved the tie to Kazakshtan on AITA's request and India emerged winner with an emphatic 4-0 margin.

Pakistan's top players had then pulled out of the tie in protest against AITA's decision to not travel to their country. Pakistan fielded rookie players who were no match to India's strong team.

AITA loses appeal in ITF tribunal, Indian Davis Cup team will have to travel to Pakistan | Tennis News - Times of India

Tennis News: The ITF tribunal has rejected AITA's contention that its Davis Cup team could face security concerns during the World Group I Play-off tie in Islamaba

timesofindia.indiatimes.com

 

[MenInG]

CHENNAI: The Indian Davis Cup team has to travel to Pakistan for their World Group I play-off match in February. If India do make up their mind to go, this will be the first time in over five decades the team will be visiting Pakistan.

The International Tennis Federation (ITF) rejected the All India Tennis Association's request to move the matches to a neutral venue. AITA had been appealing to the ITF ever since Pakistan was awarded the tie.

First, they appealed to the 15-member Davis Cup Committee and later, they put up their case to the ITF Tribunal. However, the latter also rejected the appeal on the grounds that Pakistan had recently hosted Davis Cup matches without any issue and India can travel as well.

The report first appeared in Pakistan. According to the reports, the tribunal said that Pakistan have solid grounds to host the tie and "it is pertinent on all the nations to visit the venue (country) selected by the DCC for the Davis Cup ties".

AITA also confirmed the development on Saturday. Though the final call will be up to the sports ministry and the government, the AITA had already announced the Davis Cup squad with Pakistan in mind.

India captain Rohit Rajpal said that since their request has been rejected, India can travel to Pakistan. "The tribunal has rejected our appeal and we have to now travel to Pakistan," is what Rajpal felt. The India captain also said that the team that has been announced would do well on grass.

"I think the matches will be played on grass and accordingly, we have decided on the players," he said. However, he felt that it is not ideal to play tennis with security concerns in mind. The AITA had said that the security of Indian players was a big concern. "We have to be sure about the security as well. The host nation and the ITF will have to take responsibility," he said.

The India captain said that they had requested the ITF because with so much pressure on them it will not be easy to play. "We have already selected the team and it was based on the fact that we have to play in Pakistan. They will most probably play on grass and we chose the players based on this."

The challenges of playing in Pakistan is big because the team will always have security in mind. "Playing under such conditions will always have additional pressure," he said. "That is the point that I had put across to the judge in the Tribunal. This is a game India will be playing there and it should be on a fair and square basis. Which means that the game should be focussed in and around tennis and both teams play a good game and the better team wins. But if there are security concerns then there is added pressure. Why do we need to be in this kind of environment? We reasoned it out with the ITF but this we find unreasonable. We will be asking ITF and the hosts to ensure our security. If there is any liability, it will be on their account."

The AITA would now approach the government for direction. Winning the Group I contest will keep India in the group throughout the season. This is not the first time India have protested. In 2019, the ITF moved the tie to Kazakhstan, a move which was not appreciated by the Pakistan Tennis Federation and their players.

Playing in Pakistan will always bring additional pressure: Indian Davis Cup captain Rohit Rajpal

CHENNAI: The Indian Davis Cup team has to travel to Pakistan for their World Group I play-off match in February. If India do make up their mind to go, this will

www.newindianexpress.com

 

[FearlessRoar]

Hats off to the ITF for putting an end to the drama of the Indian government. I mean, this is too much. Enough is enough.

 

[DeadlyVenom]

ITF putting the ICC to shame.

 

[MenInG]

Pakistanis understandably happy but let's see how India reacts.

I am guessing BJP boys will jump in and veto anything the Indian Tennis boys want to do

==

The Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF) expressed its delight on Saturday after the International Tennis Federation (ITF) upheld its decision allowing Pakistan to host the upcoming Davis Cup tie against India.

Earlier, the ITF ruling came following the All India Tennis Association's (AITA) appeal against the initial decision.

The AITA cited concerns regarding Pakistan's general elections scheduled for Feb. 8, 2024, but the ITF's independent tribunal deemed the concerns baseless.

"The tribunal, after careful review, determined that the presented reasons lacked sufficient merit," the ITF stated in its official announcement, adding that Pakistan has a proven track record of successfully hosting major Davis Cup ties and could do so again for the crucial encounter.

President of the PTF Salim Saifullah Khan welcomed the news and said: "The decision is a significant victory for Pakistani tennis and sports fans alike."

"The potential visit of the Indian team would not only be a thrilling spectacle for tennis enthusiasts but also foster greater people-to-people connections and contribute positively to international sports," added the president.

The Davis Cup tie is scheduled to take place in the Pakistani capital Islamabad during the first week of February 2024.

Source: Xinhua

 

[FearlessRoar]

Pakistan's tennis sensation, Aisam ul-Haq, recently engaged in an exclusive interview with Geo News, shedding light on the upcoming match against India, preparations for the Davis Cup, and the potential impact on sports diplomacy between the two nations.

The 43-year-old voiced his opinion that India should come to Pakistan as the match between the two rivals would be historic. He also expressed that India not coming to his country would be a significant mistake as it would cost them as the home side would get a walkover.

"Preparations have begun to play against India. I am pleased that the International Tennis Federation has made a decision in favour of Pakistan. Although India appealed against Pakistan's participation, the Independent Tribunal stated that there is no reason for Pakistan not to participate," he began.

"India's visit to Pakistan will be historic, creating enthusiasm among fans. If they do not come, we will advance to the next round by a walkover. Tennis can help bring the two countries together.

"If India does not come, it will be a significant mistake. Teams from all countries, except India, are coming to play various sports in Pakistan. We are a peaceful country, and hosting international matches is essential for the promotion of sports."

He praised the way Pakistan managed the security and all the important matters that were needed to host a tournament successfully. The 43-year-old then revealed that the tennis federation aims to send players abroad to participate in practice matches.

"In the Davis Cup, Pakistan hosted teams from multiple countries, and all expressed positive experiences. We maintained excellent security arrangements during the hosting of the Davis Cup. We will be playing against India in the Davis Cup will be historic as they will be coming here for the first time for the cup.

"In January, the plan is to go to Thailand for match practice. The Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF) also plans to send other players for match practice. Despite facing a strong opponent, they are determined to compete. There has always been a mindset that sports should be kept away from politics.

"If the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) officials can come to Pakistan, then why their team cannot come? India has played in Pakistan several times, but now visa issues have arisen," Aisam added.

He then shared his experience of playing in India and also named some top Indian players who have played in Pakistan.

"I enjoyed playing tennis in India, and it was a great experience. Sania Mirza and Rohan Bopanna have also played in Pakistan and have good memories. All young players from India are top-ranked in doubles and singles. Meanwhile, except for me, there is no Pakistani player in the rankings.

"In the match against India, there will be pressure on both teams. Tennis enthusiasts should come to witness the Pakistan-India match. They will have the opportunity to see good tennis, and I hope they come to support us," he concluded.

'India scared to play on grass court'
The president of the Pakistan Tennis Federation Saleem Saif Ullah also shed light on the ongoing issue stating that the Indian players want to come and play in Pakistan.

"In 2019, India refused to play the Davis Cup in Pakistan with excuses. They are trying to do the same this time," he told Geo News.

"All the teams who came here were greeted with utmost hospitality and affection. We are in contact with Indian players, they want to play in Pakistan. Officials from Indian tennis federations often say that when we come, give us a tour of your country.

"Our tennis complex is located just a few kilometers away from the hotel, teams can reach that within a few minutes.

"Indian players cannot play on grass courts, maybe they are scared that they could lose on such courts if they play us here.

“We are in contact with the Indian federation, politics shouldn’t be mixed with sports. If they come to Pakistan, we will welcome them with maximum hospitality."

It must be noted that Judge David Casserly (Sports Resolution UK) rejected All Indian Tennis Association’s (AITA) appeal against the Davis Cup Committee’s decision to allot the tie to Pakistan which is scheduled to take place in February 2024.

Source: Geo Super

Aisam-ul-Haq hopes India will come to Pakistan to play Davis Cup

He is one of the best tennis players Pakistan ever produced

www.geosuper.tv

 

[hassan918]

Pakistan have been playing most of the their recent Davis Cup ties at home and they have played against some European oppositions as well and they didn't have any concerns coming to Pakistan. ITF made the correct decision and now it is upto AITA whether they will send their team or they are happy to lose the tie by giving Pakistan a walk-over.

 

[MenInG]

KARACHI: Former Davis Cup Captain Hameed-ul-Haq has backed Pakistan team to beat India in the Davis Cup tie next month.

It is to be noted that India’s top three players have made themselves unavailable for the tie. Sasikumar Mukund, Sumit Nagal, who recently upset world number 27 in the Australian Open, and Rohan Bopana, world number 3, are not part of the visiting party.

“In the absence of top Indian players for this tie, Aisam and Aqeel being grass court specialists could secure victories in both singles and doubles matches,” said Hameed while talking to The News.

Hameed also lauded Aisam’s decision of leaving captaincy of the national team for this tie stating that this would allow Aisam to focus more on his singles match.

“But appointing the inexperienced M Abid as the non-playing captain is beyond understanding,” said Hameed, adding that Mushaf Zia would have been a much better choice as he coached the national team to win its last tie against Indonesia.

“Making inexperienced Abid the non-playing captain and coach for such a crucial tie will be disastrous for Pakistan. Is PTF just a puppet organisation that Aisam is dictating them to make such silly changes just ahead of this crucial tie?” asked Hameed.

Also, he added, the decision of holding the training camp in Peshawar is not prudent because grass courts in Islamabad are different from the ones in Peshawar.

“Another bad decision is the induction of Muzammil in the team without trials in spite of the fact that he is not a grass court player. He’s a good clay court player, therefore, I don’t understand what benefit this decision will give to Pakistan,” said Hameed.

The tie will be played at the grass courts of Pakistan Sports Complex in Islamabad on February 3-4.

GEO

 

[The Bald Eagle]

Pakistan Issues Visas To Indian Team For Davis Cup MatchThe Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi has issued visas to the Indian Davis Cup team, including the support staff, to play the Davis Cup World Group -1 Playoff Tie between Pakistan and India.

Pakistan Issues Visas To Indian Team For Davis Cup Match

The Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi has issued visas to the Indian Davis Cup team, including the support staff, to play the Davis Cup World Group -1 Playoff Tie between Pakistan and India. The World Group 1 play-off tie is scheduled to be played at the Islamabad Sports Complex on February 3 and 4. "Pakistan High Commission, New Delhi has issued visas to Indian Davis Cup team, including the support staff, to play the Davis Cup World Group -1 Playoff Tie between Pakistan and India," a statement from the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi read.

The Indian Davis Cup squad will travel to Pakistan for the first time since 1964. India defeated Pakistan 4-0 in their most recent neutral site match in 2019.

Earlier, the All India Tennis Association (AITA) picked a six-member Indian tennis squad for the Davis Cup 2024 World Group I play-off against Pakistan, which will be held on February 3-4 in Islamabad. The matches will take place on the grass courts at the Pakistan Sports Complex.

Former player Rohit Rajpal will remain as the Indian Davis Cup team's non-playing captain, with Zeeshan Ali as coach.

However, the squad will be missing veteran Rohan Bopanna. The 43-year-old Bopanna made his final Davis Cup appearance in a match against Morocco in September, and India triumphed 4-1.

Team India: Yuki Bhambri, Ramkumar Ramanathan, N Sriram Balaji, Saketh Myneni, Niki Kaliyanda Poonacha, Digvijay SD Prajwal Dev (reserve), Rohit Rajpal (captain).

Listen to the latest songs, only on JioSaavn.com

The Indian tennis team's finest Davis Cup performances were in 1966, 1974, and 1987, when they finished second place.

Source: NDTV News

 

[The Bald Eagle]

Davis Cup: Indian team arrives in Pakistan for the first time in 60 years​

The Indian tennis team arrived in Pakistan on Sunday for the first time in 60 years.

After months of uncertainty and reluctance, the Indian team touched down in Islamabad to play the important Davis Cup Group I tie against Pakistan at the Sports Complex Grass Court on February 3-4, reported The News on Monday.

India have a 7-0 lead in the head-to-head record against Pakistan and only twice — in 1973 and 2019 — have they played at a neutral venue. The last time the Indian team played in Pakistan was in 1964.

As per the publication, the All-Indian Tennis Association (AITA) tried using all options to deprive Pakistan of the hosting rights. It had first approached the Davis Cup Committee and then to the Chair of the Independent Tribunal to shift the tie to a neutral venue.

However, their efforts went in vain and had only two options before them either to travel to Pakistan to play the tie or face the ire of the International Tennis Federation (ITF) by forfeiting the tie and facing a fine.

Fearing the fine and possible relegation, the Indian team finally decided to travel to Pakistan and arrived in the federal capital late Sunday evening.

According to The News, this is the first time that Pakistan has defeated India’s point of view on an international forum twice in a matter of months.

It was the DCC that rejected India’s concern, allotting the tie to Pakistan, and then came the turn of the Chair of Independent Tribunal which upheld the DCC/PTF stance, rejecting AITA concerns altogether.

The visiting squad includes five players, two physios, a coach, a manager, and a coordinator. Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF) Secretary Col (retd) Gul Rehman and other federation officials welcomed the Indian team on their arrival to Pakistan.

Source: Geo Super

 

[Major]

lol, all the indians are vanished from this thread now

 

[kingusama92]

They couldn't even sacrifice a tennis tournament for their nation.

But in all seriousness, this is a good outcome and both nations shouldn't involve sports in their politics. I hope the Indian cricket team (BCCI) also comes to its senses one day.

 

[The Bald Eagle]

Aisam to face Ramkumar in the opening fixture of the World Group 1 Play-off

ISLAMABAD: The Davis Cup Tennis Tie World Group 1 play-off between traditional rivals nations Pakistan and India will get underway here at the grass courts Aisam Tennis Arena of the Pakistan Sports Complex on Saturday, as ace national tennis player, Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi will face Ramkumar Ramanathen in the opening fixture.

Referee, Javier Moreno Perez announced the Draws on Friday at a local hotel. Pakistani tennis star will take on Ramkumar Ramanathen of visiting team in the first single of the Davis Cup Tennis Tie while Pakistan number one Aqeel Khan will meet Shriram Balaji in the second encounter of the day.

On the second day, duo of local tennis lads, Muzammil Murtaza pairing with Barkatullah will lock the horns with Indian pair Yuki Bhambri, and Saketh Myneni in the Doubles fixture. Reverse Singles will also be played on Sunday at the same venue.

Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi said: “We are well prepared to encounter high-ranked Indian tennis players in the Davis Cup competitions. I have played against all visiting team’s lads in different tennis events abroad. This time we do not have the grass court advantage because Indian players also play on grass courts but will have a plus point of a home ground and home crowd advantage and people should come and support the national players. We will play a positive game to produce a notable performance against India”.

Indian coach Zeeshan Ali said: “We came here to play the Davis Cup Tennis Tie, which is very important for us. We will try our best to win the vital tie. Our players are confident to give maximum against the host side that has world-class players but we are focused on our game and I hope my boys will do well in the Davis Cup Tennis Tie, as our team is visiting Pakistan after 64 years. We had won the previous tie 4-0. Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF) provided us with international standard facilities here during the last four days”.

Match Officials: Javier Moreno Perez (Referee), Emanuel Joseph (Chair Umpire), Nicholas Stellabotte (Chair Umpire), Shahzad Akhter Alvi (Chief of Umpires)

Schedule: Davis Cup Tennis Tie (Pakistan vs India)

First Singles: Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi vs Ramkumar Ramanathan

Second Singles: Aqeel Khan vs Shriram Balaji

Doubles: Muzammil Murtaza, Barkatullah vs Yuki Bhambri, Saketh Myneni

Reverse Singles-1: Aqeel Khan vs Ramkumar Ramanathan

Reverse Singles-2: Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi vs Shriram Balaji

India officials: Rohit Rajpal (Non-playing Captain), Zeeshan Ali (Coach), Debashish Das, and Anand Kumar (Physios), Anil Dhupar (Manager), Sunil Yajaman (Coordinator)

Pakistan Official: Mohammad Abid (Non-playing captain).

Source: Sports Bulletin

 

[FearlessRoar]

Ramped up security, low bouncing grass courts: India look to ace Pakistan experience in Davis Cup tie

With Pakistan hosting India after 60 years. this Davis Cup tie is about so much more than tennis

Ever since India were drawn to play Pakistan last September, this Davis Cup tie has been under heightened spotlight. For varied reasons: India's request to shift it to a neutral venue, the country's top singles players pulling out, the International Tennis Federation (ITF) rejecting India's appeal, the government giving its nod for Indian players to travel to Pakistan.

That hasn’t happened in 60 years. And, given the air of unknown surrounding this tie, players weren’t totally sure it would happen this time too. Until they landed in Islamabad for the landmark Davis Cup World Group I play-off encounter to be played over the weekend on the grass courts of Pakistan Sports Complex.

Landmark, not quite in its content — India have never lost to Pakistan in Davis Cup history — but context. For, amid bilateral sporting action between India and Pakistan across sports being at a standstill on either country’s soil, this is the first instance of Indian players visiting Pakistan to play Pakistan in a mainstream sport in several years.

"Definitely, there was an air of unknown coming here," Yuki Bhambri, among the most experienced members of the travelling Indian squad, said over phone from Islamabad. “No one from the team has travelled to Pakistan before. No one thought we would ever be travelling to Pakistan because of, obviously, the differences. But now that we're here, we are excited and looking forward to the tie.”

India were drawn to play Pakistan away in 2019 as well, but that Asia/Oceania Group I tie was shifted to a neutral venue (Kazakhstan) due to security concerns. This time, the ITF did not accept All India Tennis Association's (AITA) request, compelling India to either travel or forfeit the tie.

Travel they have, under some of the most stringent protocols. AITA’s security apprehensions and ITF’s intervention has meant the layers of security around the Indian contingent, comprising players and AITA officials, is intense. Players’ movement is restricted to the hotel and courts, with no leeway for them to venture out for even a meal.

“The security has been top notch. The downside to that has been we've been restricted to the hotel and the tennis court. But we understand that, and we're happy that we've been provided with this security. We’ve had a lot of practice sessions here to keep us busy. And the Pakistan federation has done a wonderful job in terms of hospitality," said Bhambri.

India-Pakistan contests carry plenty of nostalgia in India’s Davis Cup folklore. The last time India toured Pakistan was in 1964, when Akhtar Ali, father of India's current non-playing captain Zeeshan Ali, Premjit Lall and Shiv Prakash Misra beat the hosts 4-0 in Lahore. Two years prior to that, the Ramanathan Krishnan-led India beat them 5-0. From more recent memory, who can forget the Leander Paes-inspired 3-2 victory on the grass courts of Mumbai's Cricket Club of India in 2006.

The rivalry may have waned in tennis but the history, and added chatter, around India-Pakistan contests is continued to be felt by players.

“I do know how much of a rivalry there is, especially having witnessed that in cricket, in hockey — I’ve seen a lot of that on TV growing up and how things are covered in the media," Bhambri, the former junior world No. 1, said. “We do understand that, and it is natural, because there is a rivalry. But having said that, on the court, there already is a lot of pressure, because you want to do well for your country, irrespective of who is across the net. That's how the boys and I look at it.”

'Old school' grass courts challenge

Even without their top singles pros (Sumit Nagal and Mukund Sasikumar had pulled out of this tie) and doubles world No. 1 Rohan Bopanna, India start as favourites against a Pakistan unit whose top singles player is ranked in the 1000s. Doubles specialist Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi, their lone face on the ATP Tour whose ranking too has dropped, will therefore also play singles at age 43 and will open the tie against Ramkumar Ramanathan on Saturday. Aqeel Khan, 44, will play N Sriram Balaji in the second singles rubber. Bhambri and Saketh Myneni will take on Barkatullah and Muzammil Murtaza in the opening doubles contest on Sunday.

On paper, India should extend their unbeaten 7-0 record against Pakistan but the variable of playing on grass, a surface not many Indians are used to, could kick in. Bhambri described the low-bouncing Islamabad grass courts as “very old school”.

"It is a bit of a challenge. On paper, we are better, but they are an experienced team and have beaten a few good teams to reach this stage. The grass courts here are of a different kind — very old school, low bouncing. And very few of us have played on it. So, it's an experience, but hopefully we will be well equipped to deal with it,” he said.

Source: Hindustan Times

Ramped up security, low bouncing grass courts: India look to ace Pakistan experience in Davis Cup tie

With Pakistan hosting India after 60 years. this Davis Cup tie is about so much more than tennis

www.hindustantimes.com

 

[BouncerGuy]

Indian Team Arrives At Islamabad Sports Complex For Davis Cup Clash vs Pakistan

The Indian Davis Cup team arrived at Islamabad Sports Complex for their Davis Cup match against arch-rivals Pakistan, which will kickstart on Saturday. The Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi has issued visas to the Indian Davis Cup team, including the support staff, to play the Davis Cup World Group -1 Playoff Tie between Pakistan and India. The World Group 1 play-off tie is scheduled to be played at the Islamabad Sports Complex on February 3 and 4.

"Pakistan High Commission, New Delhi has issued visas to the Indian Davis Cup team, including the support staff, to play the Davis Cup World Group -1 Playoff Tie between Pakistan and India," a statement from the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi read.

The Indian Davis Cup squad has travelled to Pakistan for the first time since 1964.

Earlier, the All India Tennis Association (AITA) picked a six-member Indian tennis squad for the Davis Cup 2024 World Group I play-off against Pakistan.

Former player Rohit Rajpal will remain as the Indian Davis Cup team's non-playing captain, with Zeeshan Ali as coach.

However, the squad will be missing veteran Rohan Bopanna. The 43-year-old Bopanna made his final Davis Cup appearance in a match against Morocco in September, and India triumphed 4-1.

Team India: Yuki Bhambri, Ramkumar Ramanathan, N Sriram Balaji, Saketh Myneni, Niki Kaliyanda Poonacha, Digvijay SD Prajwal Dev (reserve), Rohit Rajpal (captain).

The Indian tennis team's finest Davis Cup performances were in 1966, 1974, and 1987, when they finished second place.

https://sports.ndtv.com/tennis/indian-team-arrives-at-islamabad-sports-complex-for-davis-cup-clash-vs-pakistan-4985242

 

[FearlessRoar]

Davis Cup 2024: Ramkumar, Balaji deliver in high-pressure contest, give India 2-0 lead over Pakistan​

India blunted Pakistan’s challenge on the opening day to take a 2-0 lead in the Davis Cup World Group I play-off tie with Ramkumar Ramanathan and N Sriram Balaji rising to the occasion in the high-pressure contest, here on Saturday.

A fired-up Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi gave his all in a tight opening singles but the intensity of the match and tough conditions took a toll on him as he suffered a hamstring injury in the third set, which prevented a close finish to a hard-fought contest.

Ramkumar served extremely well in the match and also returned better in the second set to prevail 6-7(3), 7-6(4), 6-0 while 43-year-old Aisam served 10 double faults in the match.

Ramkumar’s strong serving and percentage tennis was key to the outcome of the match. He served nine games at love, keeping the points short and crisp.

Down by a set, Ramkumar wriggled out of a tough situation when he was down 15-40 in game eight of the second set and never looked back in the match in which he fired 20 aces.

Balaji, a doubles specialist, was challenged by Aqeel Khan, but the Indian defeated the veteran Pakistani player 7-5, 6-3 in the rain-hit second singles.

Balaji broke Aqeel once in both the sets. His movement, strong serve, use of drop shots all came together for a comfortable win in the end. India is now one win away from advancing to the World Group I.

Yuki Bhambri and Saketh Myneni will now look to seal the tie on Sunday when they take on Muzammil Murtaza and Barkat Ullah in the doubles rubber.

The freezing cold made the conditions challenging for the players.

Pakistan has always punched above its weight in home conditions on grass courts but India was well-equipped to respond to the challenge. “This will go down as a special win for me given we are in Pakistan. It is not easy to win away,” Ramkumar said after the win.

“It (grass courts) suits my game style the way I play. It is one of my favourite surfaces. I adapted really well. Aisam slowed down the game while serving. It was not easy but I was all pumped up,” he said.

Aisam said he gave his 100 percent in the match. “It was really cold, making the balls heavy. I did not make many mistakes when I had breakpoints in the second set. He served well, one on ‘T’ and had two volleys. He gets credit for that,” said Aisam.

“In tie-breaker also, he came up with goods, but I did not make many errors. Then I started feeling pain in my groin and it spread to my thigh.

That slowed me down and also my focus shifted to pain. Ramkumar started to serve better. But I feel proud, I played hard,” he said.

Ramkumar quickly overcame the initial jitters to serve out the opening game at love with an ace. Points were long when Aisam served but when the home favourite hit a backhand service return winner on Ramkumar’s serve in the third game, it was clear that the match was on.

Ramkumar, though, served extremely well. He had fired five aces in his first three service games, closing the fifth for a hold with his third ace of the game.

Aisam charged the net often and also used drop shots very effectively. The Pakistani had served three double faults but he came back strongly in following points to stay unhurt. Ramkumar served five games at love in the opening set which was eventually settled in tie-breaker, in which Aisam raced to a 3-0 lead with a break of serve on the first point when Ramkumar hit a forehand wide.

Aisam held his serves on the following points. A forehand lob from Ramkumar that went long gave Aisam his first set-point and he converted that with an ace and let out a roar.

Ramkumar got the kind of start he needed in the second set. He reeled off eight straight points to go a break up as Aisam dropped serve at love.

The Indian, though, squandered the opportunity to further build pressure by dropping his serve in game four.

Aisam produced some stunning backhand shots. The one that stood out was a service return winner while he was down 30-40.

He got breakpoint with a screaming backhand passing winner and Ramkumar buckled under pressure by hitting a forehand wide.

Egged on by his family and home fans, Aisam held the game easily for a 3-2 lead.

In game eight, Ramkumar saved two breakpoints. It was Aisam’s service return winner that earned him two breakpoints. Ramkumar saved both with some good serving.

In a repeat of the first set, it all boiled down to tie-breaker and this time it was the Indian who got the mini-break on the first point by hitting a service return winner.

In no time, Ramkumar zoomed to a 4-0 lead and soon had five set points.

Aisam saved the first four but Ramkumar nailed it on the fifth with an ace.

Ramkumar drew the first blood in the third set, breaking Aisam in the second game. He attacked Aisam’s service with his forehands.

Aisam was up 40-15, but Ramkumar hit a passing backhand winner and followed that up with another winner to make it deuce.

Ramkumar found a service return winner to earn a break point and Aisam served a double fault to help his rival. Aisam was now struggling and took a medical time out to treat his groin and hamstring.

Ramkumar just ran away with the match after that, finishing off with an easy backhand drop shot.

Source: The Hindu

Davis Cup 2024: Ramkumar, Balaji deliver in high-pressure contest, give India 2-0 lead over Pakistan

India blunted Pakistan’s challenge on the opening day to take a 2-0 lead in the Davis Cup World Group I play-off tie with Ramkumar Ramanathan and N Sriram Balaji rising to the occasion in the high-pressure contest, here on Saturday.

www.google.com

 

[KingKhanWC]

India also refuses to play bilateral series in Hockey.

Except cricket other sports hardly have concept of a bilateral series.

If Davis cup was not a tournament played under ITF India would have refused too. But its a multi nation event played and organised by ITF.

India did refuse this time but ITF rejected their proposal.

India decided to go.

If you refuse, you should have the self respect to stick to your decision. Embarrassing stuff from the Indians again, who think they are some sporting shuppapower.

 

[Cpt. Rishwat]

India did refuse this time but ITF rejected their proposal.

India decided to go.

If you refuse, you should have the self respect to stick to your decision. Embarrassing stuff from the Indians again, who think they are some sporting shuppapower.

I really doubt they consider themselves any sort of sporting superpower unless cricket is the ony sport where they dictate who plays, who profits and how they can manipulate it to make themselves look as good as possible.

 

[gani999]

I really doubt they consider themselves any sort of sporting superpower unless cricket is the ony sport where they dictate who plays, who profits and how they can manipulate it to make themselves look as good as possible.

Well, the Indian tennis players have beaten the Pakistanis in their own backyard. Looks like they are manipulating and dictating even in tennis.

 

[FearlessRoar]

India defeats Pakistan in Davis Cup Group I play-off

India eased past Pakistan 4-0 in their World Group I play-off tie on Sunday, as they proved superior in both doubles and singles on Islamabad’s grass courts.

A dominant India never looked back after winning both singles matches on Saturday, taking their overall record in the Davis Cup against Pakistan to 8-0.

The Indian pair of Saketh Myneni and Yuki Bhambri were too good for the Pakistani duo of Aqeel Khan and Muzammil Murtaza, winning 6-2, 7-6.

Veteran Pakistani player Aisamul Haq Qureshi could not take the court due to a hamstring injury sustained on Saturday, hurting Pakistan’s chances in the doubles.

Indian Niki Poonacha took his match against a youthful Muhammad Shoaib 6-3, 6-4, winning in 64 minutes.

The twelve winning nations from the World Group I play-offs will play a World Group I tie in September while the same number of losing nations will contest a World Group II tie, also in September.

Source: Dawn

India defeats Pakistan in Davis Cup Group I play-off

India has taken its overall record in the Davis Cup against Pakistan to 8-0.

www.google.com

 

[FearlessRoar]

Congratulations to the Indian tennis team and Indian fans.

 

[Cpt. Rishwat]

Well, the Indian tennis players have beaten the Pakistanis in their own backyard. Looks like they are manipulating and dictating even in tennis.

Pakistan is about as professional in tennis as Afghanistan or Palestine so being forced to play there by their masters must have stung.

 

[gani999]

Pakistan is about as professional in tennis as Afghanistan or Palestine so being forced to play there by their masters must have stung.

The Davis Cup is a tournament in which about 140 countries compete. Most are nowhere in the world of tennis. There is nothing much to write home about Indian tennis either. Before this tournament, some Pakistani observers were claiming that India is refusing to play as they lack experience of playing on grass courts and are afraid of losing to Pakistan. See what happened now.
Guess Pak observers are so used to being proven wrong that it doesn't sting them anymore.

 

[Cpt. Rishwat]

The Davis Cup is a tournament in which about 140 countries compete. Most are nowhere in the world of tennis. There is nothing much to write home about Indian tennis either. Before this tournament, some Pakistani observers were claiming that India is refusing to play as they lack experience of playing on grass courts and are afraid of losing to Pakistan. See what happened now.
Guess Pak observers are so used to being proven wrong that it doesn't sting them anymore.

Why didn't Bharati govt intervene to stop Indian sportsmen accepting the hospitality of Pakistan authorities? Imagine the repercussions if they had suffered a terrorist attack deep in enemy country. I guess the hindutva govt must really be on good terms with the current establishment led administration in Pakistan.

 

[pakistani pride]

Pakistan should stop playing sports at the International level. It is fast becoming a joke!

 

[Champ_Pal]

Congratulations to the Indian tennis team and Indian fans.

Indian team played fearless tennis

 

[Cricket Warrior]

Pakistan should stop playing sports at the International level. It is fast becoming a joke!

with such limited resources we cant expect them to do wonders at international level.

 

[Major]

They couldn't even sacrifice a tennis tournament for their nation.

But in all seriousness, this is a good outcome and both nations shouldn't involve sports in their politics. I hope the Indian cricket team (BCCI) also comes to its senses one day.

but bro what about Pakistan mixing politics with sports? They had anti BJP posters posted at Islamabad airport, i wonder if the team saw it

 

[kingusama92]

but bro what about Pakistan mixing politics with sports? They had anti BJP posters posted at Islamabad airport, i wonder if the team saw it

No idea about these anti-BJP posters. First time hearing about this.

Sporting organizations like PCB and BCCI need to be above this stuff. I won't just say this for the BCCI. I found it equally ridiculous when Zaka Ashraf used the phrase "Dushman mulk" so carelessly when talking about India.

One positive thing about PCB and Pakistan's government is they're willing to work with India. This is why you can ignore nonsense like Ashraf's comments. BCCI or its government doesn't take the same step forward. Of course, the world finds it ridiculous and India had to give in when it came to this tennis tournament.

Government rhetoric (political point scoring), online trolling, and even random hate on the streets shouldn't be affecting the sporting relationship between these countries. Remember the days of Thackeray in the 90s? The stuff Pakistan's team dealt with back then is significantly worse than a poster or two. In reality, those issues will always be there and were always there even when relations were good. It's just a part of life in these nations.

 

[JaDed]

Lol at “embarrassing “by Indian team to be forced to visit Pakistan and still not lose a single game.

Hopefully we always get embarrassed this way.

 

[Major]

No idea about these anti-BJP posters. First time hearing about this.

Sporting organizations like PCB and BCCI need to be above this stuff. I won't just say this for the BCCI. I found it equally ridiculous when Zaka Ashraf used the phrase "Dushman mulk" so carelessly when talking about India.

One positive thing about PCB and Pakistan's government is they're willing to work with India. This is why you can ignore nonsense like Ashraf's comments. BCCI or its government doesn't take the same step forward. Of course, the world finds it ridiculous and India had to give in when it came to this tennis tournament.

Government rhetoric (political point scoring), online trolling, and even random hate on the streets shouldn't be affecting the sporting relationship between these countries. Remember the days of Thackeray in the 90s? The stuff Pakistan's team dealt with back then is significantly worse than a poster or two. In reality, those issues will always be there and were always there even when relations were good. It's just a part of life in these nations.

i went to isb airport and saw it myself.

 

[MenInG]

From simulating conditions in Islamabad to identifying a second singles player in N Sriram Balaji two months before the Davis Cup tie, the Indian team had a meticulous plan in place to counter the grass court challenge in Pakistan.

It worked well, and in the end, the Indian team emerged a comfortable winner in the World Group I Play-off tie, pummelling the hosts with a 4-0 scoreline.

The team management did not have the services of the country’s top two singles players -- Sumit Nagal and Sasikumar Mukund -- but it prepared well with the available resources.

The team researched the likely weather conditions in Islamabad and found that rain may lash the beautiful city, surrounded by hills, during the week of the tie.

READ | WTA Mumbai Open: Ankita Raina recalls the confidence she gained by advancing to quarterfinals of 2017 edition

The moisture and chill in the air, along with the slightly wet court was anticipated and accordingly, captain Rohit Rajpal and his coaching team, which included Zeeshan Ali and Ashutosh Singh put in place a plan.

The groundsmen at Delhi Gymkhana Club, the venue for the pre-tie one-week camp, were directed to leave water on the courts during the night so that the court would become slow and with low bounce.

The players trained well in those conditions for a week before landing in Islamabad. The same conditions welcomed them here, as the city experienced rain twice in the week.

The players were not caught off guard, and adapting to the conditions became easy. They were well-prepared to negotiate the conditions even before landing in the capital city of Pakistan.

“We had checked the weather forecast. We knew that there will be fast and low-bounce courts on offer. The training camp in Delhi was crucial because Pakistan players play so well on grass courts at home.

“The players were ready and got sharper after landing in Islamabad. Ramkumar even told me after the tie that if they did not have the camp in Delhi, adapting to conditions and countering the fiery Aisam ul haq would be stiffer,” Rajpal, who could not travel with the team due to personal reasons, told PTI.

“The team had adopted the same strategy for the Denmark tie as well. Largely the team wanted to pick hard courts, but it was then decided that we play them on grass because they are already good on hard courts, and grass is the surface where they struggle.” Former national champion Ashutosh further explained how the camp helped the team.

“The ground staff at the DGC was requested to not use the heavy roller on practice courts for three out of six practice days during the camp. This was done to enable the ground to become softer, and hence resulting in lower bounce to simulate match conditions in Islamabad,” said Ashutosh.

“Kudos to captain Rohit and the team management for organising the camp.” In terms of selection, the team was keen to play Yuki Bhambri as the second singles player. However, there were concerns if playing singles would put pressure on his knees and ankles.

“Then we told Bala to be ready. He was asked to start practising for singles two months before the tie. He came fully prepared. It kept him ready mentally, and it makes a huge difference since he did not have to make quick adjustments,” said Rajpal.

Davis Cup: How India prepared for tough grass court challenge in Pakistan

Indian team's meticulous plan to counter grass court challenge in Pakistan leads to a comfortable victory.

sportstar.thehindu.com

 

[Rajdeep]

Pakistan must hope that BCCI stick to its stance and refuses to send its team to Pak in CT next year. Like this epic bashing in tennis, our cricket team if travels will provide further humiliation in front of home crowd. Its one thing to become 36/8 in Ahmedabad or losing by 226 runs in Colombo but imagine happening it all in front of home crowd? So my fellow Pakistani's, just hope Indian cricket team dnt travel next year.

 

[cricketjoshila]

Why didn't Bharati govt intervene to stop Indian sportsmen accepting the hospitality of Pakistan authorities? Imagine the repercussions if they had suffered a terrorist attack deep in enemy country. I guess the hindutva govt must really be on good terms with the current establishment led administration in Pakistan.

Davis Cup is a multi national tournament organised by ITF. Plus anyone who didn't want to travel to Pakistan were allowed to skip the event.

 

[DeadlyVenom]

Pakistan must hope that BCCI stick to its stance and refuses to send its team to Pak in CT next year. Like this epic bashing in tennis, our cricket team if travels will provide further humiliation in front of home crowd. Its one thing to become 36/8 in Ahmedabad or losing by 226 runs in Colombo but imagine happening it all in front of home crowd? So my fellow Pakistani's, just hope Indian cricket team dnt travel next year.

This will be the best scenario.

Pakistan can defend the honour of Asia by ensuring that at least one ICC trophy is retained in the continent without being distracted.

Indians can continue their show of solidarity with their jawaans.

Everyone wins.

 

[BouncerGuy]

India is way ahead of Pakistan in every field atm. The same is the case with tennis here. Sports in Pakistan have no necessary infrastructure to let the players do a wonderful job everywhere. Even in cricket, the basic structure is kind of collapsing every day. So there is nothing to worry about this loss, it was always on the cards.

 

[Swashbuckler]

Good to see sporting contact between the 2 nations, may we see more of it in the years to come. Pointless to keep bickering, time heals the worst of scars.

 

[Cpt. Rishwat]

Pakistan must hope that BCCI stick to its stance and refuses to send its team to Pak in CT next year. Like this epic bashing in tennis, our cricket team if travels will provide further humiliation in front of home crowd. Its one thing to become 36/8 in Ahmedabad or losing by 226 runs in Colombo but imagine happening it all in front of home crowd? So my fellow Pakistani's, just hope Indian cricket team dnt travel next year.

Sporting contests are more important than results other than to those who have a very narrow and defensive mindset. When a country wants to avoid contest, then it is probably because they fear losing more than there opponents. Remind me, which nation of the two is avoiding competition between the two of these two?

 

[BouncerGuy]

The new President of the Pakistan Tennis Federation is pretty optimistic about bringing tennis back to Pakistan.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1761265735156822330