ISLAMABAD: Pakistan opens its Davis Cup World Group II tie against Senegal on Friday with Muzammil Murtaza facing Nicolas Johan, officials announced following Thursday’s draw. The first day’s second singles will feature veteran Aqeel Khan against Seydina Andre.

The tie’s concluding day on Saturday will see the veteran Pakistani doubles pair of Aisam-ul-Haq and Aqeel take on Johan and Christophe Jadoun, followed by the final two reverse singles matches.

The visiting Senegalese team arrived earlier this week, holding intensive practice sessions on Islamabad’s grass courts.

Addressing the press, Senegal captain Bedi Dieng acknowledged the challenge.

“Pakistan is a strong opponent and defeating them on home ground will be a big challenge,” he said. “Our team mainly consists of young players and we have limited experience on grass courts.”

He praised the hospitality and stated their goal was to improve Senegal’s global ranking.

Pakistan Tennis Federation president Aisam vowed commitment.

“I will continue to play Davis Cup as long as the country needs me,” he said. “We are determined to win. Senegal has limited experience on grass, which we will use to our advantage.”

Published in Dawn, February 6th, 2026