LAHORE – The victorious Pakistan Davis Cup team, compromising Aqeel Khan, Samir Iftikhar, Yasir Khan and non-playing captain Mohsif Zia, were accorded a warm reception on their arrival from Hong Kong. PTF officials, including President Kalim Imam, and tennis fans warmly welcomed them at the Islamabad airport. Pakistan beat Hong Kong 3-2 in the Davis Cup Asia Oceania Group II tie at Victoria Park Hong Kong. The PTF President hoped that they will repeat their performance in the next round against South Korea at Seoul in July.
He also praised the performance of Aisamul Haq and Aqeel Khan and was very happy that the talented youngster Samir Iftikhar got the opportunity to make his debut in Davis Cup and gained the necessary exposure which will help him in future. The PTF also held a luncheon in honor of the Pakistan team at the Marriot Hotel, Islamabad where a huge number of tennis enthusiasts and former tennis stars were present. The President in his speech said that winning the Davis cup tie was like winning a World Cup match in cricket, as every win counted towards moving to the next level.
In an exclusive chat with Pakistan Today, Samir Iftikhar said: “It was great experience for me to be in the Pakistan team with my idol and first cousin Aisam and to play for Pakistan in front of a huge crowd. I was a bit nervous as it is a totally different feeling when you are playing for your country rather than for yourself. I am very thankful to the senior players Aisam and Aqeel, who along with the captain helped me with my game during the training sessions in Hong Kong, and I specially thank PTF for providing me the opportunity to represent Pakistan.”
