Aisam excited to host India for Asia-Oceania Davis Cup Group-I tie.

Byline: Mohsin Ali

ISLAMABAD -- Pakistan's international tennis player Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi has expressed his happiness and excitement on India's confirmation to send their team here for the Asia-Oceania Davis Cup Group-I tie, which is scheduled to be held here at Pakistan Sports Complex from November 29 to 30.

Talking to The Nation from Paris on Monday, Aisam said: 'India is coming to play in Pakistan and I think it will be beneficial for the green land and game. Obviously, I am not only pumped up, but looking forward to face India and play key role in helping Pakistan perform well in the tie. The Indians' arrival will send a very positive message to international community, which will realise that Pakistanis are peaceful and sports-loving people.

'The visitors will enjoy our hospitality, as they will interact with players and Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF) officials. Despite the brutalities happening in Indian Occupied Kashmir (IOK), they must keep politics far away from sports as it is the only way to bridge the gap between the two neighbouring countries. I am taking good care of my body to stay fit and working very hard on my training.'

Aisam said: 'The Indian Tennis Federation had revised their squad from players to touring party, as Mahesh Bhupathi was replaced with experienced Leander Paes, who had won countless titles for India as a non-playing captain, which is a highly tactical move on their part. Sunder Narayan Iyer will manage, while Syed Zeeshan Ali will coach the visiting side. Anand Kumar (physio), Saketh Sai Myneni (player), Suresh Kumar Manish (player), Rawat Sidharth (player), Arjun Jayant Kadhe (player), Sri Ram Balaji (player), Sasikumar Mukund (player) and Lakshmi Anumolu will accompany the Indian delegation.

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