The International Tennis Federation has decided to shift the Davis Cup tie between India and Pakistan to a neutral venue. Earlier the match was scheduled to be played in Islamabad.
ITF, in a statement, has also mentioned that the tie will be held on November 29 and 30.
The statement released by the International tennis federation said, “Following the review of the latest advice given by the ITF’s independent security advisors, the Davis Cup Committee has taken the decision that the Davis Cup Asia/Oceania Group I tie between Pakistan and India on November 29-30 must be played at a neutral venue.”
“The ITF and Davis Cup Committee’s first priority has always been the safety of athletes, officials and spectators and the decision was made on this basis.”, the release further stated.
The tie was originally scheduled to be held in September, but was delayed when India expressed concerns about the safety of their players due to the diplomatic tensions between the two nations after the revocation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir.
Earlier on Monday, Rohit Rajpal, a former India player and Chairman of the national tennis federation’s selection panel, was named India’s non-playing captain by the All India Tennis Association.
The move also signaled an end to Mahesh Bhupathi’s era after he refused to travel to Pakistan. However, there were also speculations that the veteran Leander Paes could be considered for the job after the 46-year-old had made himself available following pullouts by top players and captain Bhupathi.
Bhupathi had taken over from Anand Amritraj in December 2016. Sources close to the development claimed that AITA wanted to continue its tradition of non playing captain and therefore, Rohit Rajpal was chosen ahead of Paes, who is still an active player.
Rajpal after being chosen as the captain said, “It’s a huge responsibility and I am thankful to AITA for choosing me for such an important tie. The onus is on ITF and Pakistan government to ensure Indian contingent’s security.” Rajpal was quoted saying by the hindu.
“I am going to approach all the players who have made themselves unavailable and request them to reconsider their decision,” Rajpal added.
