Facing the challenge of securing permission to travel to Pakistan, the AITA initiated the process with the sports ministry...

Digital Desk: The Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi recently confirmed the issuance of visas for Indian players and support staff set to participate in the Davis Cup World Group 1 playoff tie. Scheduled for February 3-4, the event will take place on the grass courts of Islamabad.

The decision comes after the All India Tennis Association's appeal for a neutral venue was rejected by an International Tennis Federation tribunal.

Notably, the 2019 tie between India and Pakistan occurred in Kazakhstan.

Facing the challenge of securing permission to travel to Pakistan, the AITA initiated the process with the sports ministry. Historically, bilateral tensions have deterred Indian teams from visiting Pakistan, making this upcoming event a significant departure. If approved, this would mark the first time since 1964 that an Indian team participated in a Davis Cup tie in Pakistan.

Despite awaiting confirmation from the Indian government, preparations, including robust security measures, are reportedly underway. The Indian team, as per the News International, is anticipated to arrive in Islamabad on January 29. 

Notably, the tie will witness the absence of top-ranked singles players Sumit Nagal and Sasikumar Mukund, with World No. 463 Ramkumar Ramanathan leading a squad predominantly comprising doubles specialists. As the diplomatic and sporting landscapes intertwine, the forthcoming Davis Cup tie adds a unique chapter to the historic rivalry between India and Pakistan.