Pakistan tennis authorities are planning to take the game to the war-torn region of Waziristan not only to spot tennis but also to turn the focus of the people towards healthy activities. The Waziristan region bordering Afghanistan has been a hotbed of militant activity, with North Waziristan a known sanctuary for al Qaeda and Taliban militants.
“We have planned some exhibition matches in Waziristan around June-July this year,” said Mumtaz Yusuf, secretary of the Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF). “We feel that the federation needs to take an initiative to promote some sports in these disturbed areas. It is also our way of sending a message to the international community that in spite of the war on terror sporting activities can be held in Pakistan.” Yusuf said Pakistan’s top player, Aisam-ul-Haq, would be invited to play in the exhibition matches.
“Obviously the situation in that region is not very good and we have sought clearance from the military and other law enforcement agencies. The match will not be possible without their support,” Yusuf said. The venue for the matches would be decided with the consultation of the security forces, he added. Aisam, who reached the US Open doubles and mixed doubles final last year, wanted to see relations between Pakistan and India improve and he could play in a match against his doubles partner Rohan Bopanna.
“We plan to host a peace match between Aisam and his Indian doubles partner, Rohan Bopanna, at the Wagah border at the end of the year,” said Yusuf.