ISLAMABAD: After two phases of trials, the Pakistan Tennis Federation has finalised the Davis Cup team to play Iran at Pakistan Sport Board’s refurbished synthetic courts from Feb 3 to 5.

The team comprises Aqeel Khan, Aisam-ul-Haq, Abid Ali Akbar and Abid Mushtaq while Rashid Malik is the captain.

“We are hopeful that our team which has the best players of the country will win this tie against Iran as we have a good track record against Iran,” said PTF secretary Khalid Rehmani.

The tie is the first round of Asia Oceania Group II. Besides Pakistan and Iran, other countries in this group are Vietnam, Hong Kong, China, Thailand, Indonesia, Kuwait and Philippines.

Pakistan has so far played three Davis Cup ties against Iran — two in Iran and one in Pakistan — and won all of them.

If Pakistan beat Iran, they will play the winner of Vietnam/ Hong Kong match and in case of defeat, they will face the losing side of Vietnam-Hong Kong clash.

“We are optimistic that we will defeat Iran and play the next match in April this year here in Islamabad,” the secretary said and added that the next tie will be held in Pakistan even if Pakistan lose. It is relevant to note here that the Davis Cup tie is returning to Pakistan after nearly 12 years as Pakistan was playing overseas due to security issues at home.

However, during the last couple of years security situation has greatly improved in the country and it is organizing international matches of squash, kabaddi and female football.

Rehmani said the upcoming tie against Iran was highly important for Pakistan as it will be a gateway for revival of international tennis.

“Our young players will learn a lot and will be encouraged to see international players in action on Pakistani soil,” he said.

Published in Dawn, January 25th, 2017