No Aisam, no problem: Aqeel

Tennis team backed to do well at Islamic Games despite missing stalwart

KARACHI: Pakistan's tennis team may be without talisman Aisamul Haq Qureshi for the upcoming Islamic Solidary Games in Baku, Azerbaijan, but fellow veteran Aqeel Khan — who will be the side's leader in Aisam's absence —feels the team still has enough quality to secure a podium finish.

"Aisam had told us two months ago that he won't be able to play the Games, but it's alright," Aqeel, a doubles gold medallist at the inaugural 2005 Islamic Games, told The Express Tribune.

"It will not be easy as even though we have a good side, most of the Muslim countries now also have a good standard of tennis. It has been a long break and I'm sure many countries have improved since 2005," added the 37-year-old regarding the Games, whose second edition in 2013 Pakistan skipped due to administrative issues.

In addition to being the team's main weapon, Aqeel will also be expected to mentor the younger players — a role he says he is up for.

"I know I thrived when my fellow teammates encouraged me; like Aisam would always tell me that I can win, and that really works," said Aqeel. "We have young players, including women so I'll be trying to help them with their confidence as that is the key."

Sara Mansoor, a member of the travelling contingent, sees the Games as an opportunity for women to showcase their talent.

"The first edition of the Islamic Games was probably one of my first international events, so they are special," she said. "We've been training in Islamabad and hopefully we'll be able to make a mark in Baku. It is going to be a tough competition, but we're confident of vying for the medals."

While the players have been hard at work, they have been hindered by the weather. "In the camp we've been training mostly on our own but once we even trained with the boys, which was helpful. However, the weather in Islamabad has not been very kind to us; it wasn't very conducive for our training."

Meanwhile, PTF Secretary Khalid Rehmani explained the absence of Aisam and Davis Cupper Abid Ali Akbar.

"Aisam excused himself as he has his ATP tournament, and it will not be easy for him to play on a hardcourt during the claycourt swing, so he is focusing on the French Open which is just around the corner," he said. "Akbar withdrew as well due to some [personal] issues."

In addition to Aqeel and Sara, the team's remaining members are Abid Mushtaq, Muzammil Murtaza, Ushna Sohail, Sarah Mahboob and Mehek Khokhar.