TAIPEI, Feb 12: Pakistan went down 2-3 against Taiwan on Sunday in the Davis Cup Tennis Asia-Oceania Zone Group I first round at Taipei Tennis Club.

Taiwan having lost the doubles on Saturday came back fighting in the reverse singles on Sunday winning both against Aisamul Haq and Aqeel Khan lost the singles.

Pakistan were banking on Aisam to win his match and give Pakistan an unbeatable lead but unfortunately the country’s number one player was outclassed by Wang Yeu-Tzuoo in straight sets to level the tie 2-2 for the home team.

With everything depending on final and deciding singles Aqeel started well and deservedly took the first set against Ti Chen.

He, however, could not prevent his opponent winning the next three sets to clinch the match and tie for his country.

Result:

Taiwan 3 Pakistan 2

Wang Yeu-Tzuoo (TPE) bt Aisamul Haq (PAK) 6-1, 6-3, 6-3; Ti Chen (TPE) bt Aqeel Khan (PAK) 4-6, 6-1, 6-4, 6-3

Doubles played Saturday

Aqeel Khan/Aisamul Haq (PAK) bt Yeu-Tzuoo Wang/Chu-Huan Yi (TPE) 1-6, 7-6, 6-4, 6-7, 9-7

Singles played on Friday

Aisamul Haq (PAK) bt Ti Chen (TPE) 6-2, 6-3, 6-4; Wang Yeu-Tzuoo (TPE) bt Aqeel Khan (PAK) 6-2, 6-4, 6-4.—AFP