ISLAMABAD: Former Davis Cupper Hameed-ul-Haq and Subh-e-Nau chairperson Shahida Kausar Farooq have congratulated Pakistan team for achieving a landmark victory in their Davis Cup Asia-Oceania Group II final against Thailand here on Sunday.

Hameed, who acted as manager of the Davis Cup winning team, besides praising the players — particularly Aqeel Khan and Aisam-ul-Haq — for the victory also congratulated Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF) president Salim Saifullah Khan for successfully holding the Davis Cup tie against Thailand.

Meanwhile in her message, Shahida said Pakistan team’s hard work had paid off, adding “we must acknowledge the services of country’s longest-serving player Aqeel Khan who at the age of 37 once again proved that he is a fighter and exemplary player for young tennis aspirants”.

Shahida lauded the PTF, Pakistan Sports Board and other departments concerned for organising a successful Davis Cup tie in the federal capital.

“Qualifying for the Asia-Oceania Group I [as a result of the victory against Thailand] is indeed a positive sign for Pakistan tennis and now youngsters should come forward to replace Aqeel and Aisam who have served the country brilliantly for a significantly long period of time,” Shahida said.

Published in Dawn, September 19th, 2017