Tennis: It’s difficult to host Davis Cup, says PTF

Federation to convince ITF over security situation.

KARACHI: The Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF) President Kalim Imam has confirmed that an all-out effort was being made to convince the International Tennis Federation (ITF) over the hostin of the Davis Cup tie against Philippines in April.

However, the PTF chief was wary of the global body’s stance of not allowing Pakistan to host international teams because of security concerns and, despite the efforts, remained pessimistic over its chances.

Pakistan qualified for the semi-finals of the Davis Cup Asia/Oceania Group II after beating Lebanon in an away tie, which was originally scheduled to take place in Lahore. Imam feared that the ITF may refuse hosting rights for Pakistan once again.

“We have finalised the security plan,” said Imam. “The issue is that the ITF seems reluctant to let Pakistan host because of security apprehensions. But we’re trying our best to convince them that we are capable of successfully hosting matches.”

Meanwhile, PTF Secretary Mumtaz Yousuf has said that if declined permission to host the tie, Pakistan would then opt for playing at a neutral venue.

“We’ll go for a neutral venue of our choice if we can’t host Philippines. But our priority is to host the semi-finals, which is our right.”

PTF to help Aqeel

Meanwhile, Imam said that the PTF will help national champion Aqeel Khan improve his ranking by facilitating his participation in international tournaments.

Aqeel needs to improve his ranking to be able to represent Pakistan at the Olympics along with Aisamul Haq Qureshi.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 17^th, 2012.