February 15, 2007	Thursday	Muharram 26, 1428

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KARACHI, Feb 14: Chairman of selectors Saeed Hai said on Wednesday the 1-4 humiliation at the hands of the Philippines in this month’s first round Asia Oceania zone group II Davis Cup tie in Manila has dashed Pakistan’s hopes of retaining a place in the group.

“Pakistan are now drawn to take Pacific Oceania in the first round relegation playoff in April and only a win can guarantee them a place in the group,” he told Dawn.

Pacific Oceania was blanked 5-0 by New Zealand. In the two other ties of the same group Kuwait eased past Iran 4-1 while Indonesia handed 3-2 defeat to Hong Kong.

Attributing the defeat to the absence of seasoned Aisamul Haq he said its’ very unfortunate he (Aisam) preferred personal interest over the national interest while skipping the tie.

“Worst come to worst Pakistan could have won 3-2 as they enjoy an edge over the opponent’s in doubles had Aisam would have been there,” he remarked.

He defended the selection of juniors in the given circumstances and in the backdrop of Aisam’s non availability.

“Its’ vital to send the juniors abroad for training to help raise their level as Davis Cup competitions were not meant to develop players,” he concluded.