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.
Arfa Feroz Zake
