New Delhi , India’s participation in the upcoming Davis Cup play-off against Pakistan hangs in the balance as the All India Tennis Association (AITA) awaits government approval for the team’s travel. The AITA had previously sought permission from the sports ministry to shift the fixture to a third country, a request declined by the International Tennis Federation tribunal.
AITA Secretary-General Anil Dhupar stated, “The proposal is still pending with the ministry, and we are awaiting a decision.” The Davis Cup World Group 1 clash is scheduled for February 3-4.
The last time Pakistan’s tennis team visited New Delhi was in 2006, while the Indian Davis Cup team traveled to Islamabad in 1964. Political tensions prompted the relocation of a 2019 match to Kazakhstan.
Sports encounters between Pakistan and India are infrequent due to long-standing hostilities. Despite having a fierce rivalry in cricket, the two nations have not engaged in a bilateral series for over a decade, participating mainly in larger tournaments.
In a recent development, India declined to travel to Pakistan for the 50-over Asia Cup in September. Consequently, Pakistan had to share hosting duties with Sri Lanka. However, Pakistan did visit India the following month for the World Cup after its request to stage some matches in a third country was rejected.
By AFP
