It will be for the first time in 59 years and only third in the history of both these team’s face-off if India decides to accept.
India have been drawn to play Pakistan in the World Group I Play-offs and the Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF) on Thursday made it clear that it won't agree to shift their home tie to a neutral venue this time.
Top Pak players Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi and Aqeel Khan had refused to play in the tie as a mark of protest. Rookies Mohammed Shoaib, Huzaifa Abdul Rehman and Yousaf Khalil competed for them instead. As per expectations India defeated a weak Pakistan line-up 4-0. In such a situation in the entire tie Pakistan won only seven games.
It is difficult for the AITA to convince the world governing body if the neutral venue is denied by the national federation. Aqeel Khan, a well known Pak player said, "I hope they come and give us a chance to host," Qureshi said, "hopefully this time it will be played in Pakistan."
As per PTF President Salim Saifullah Khan, India will be hosted on a grass court. He hopes that the Indian team will go to Pakistan. "If Indians come it will send a good message that we are good neighbours" he said.
It will be for the first time in 59 years and only third in the history of both these team’s face-off if India decide to accept.
All India Tennis Association (AITA) Secretary General Anil Dhupar said "it's too early to comment" when asked about the issue. He further said, "We are yet to receive a letter from ITF. After getting that, we will seek clearance from the External Affairs Ministry like the last time".
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