A showdown of tennis prowess is looming between India and Pakistan, as the Davis Cup match is set to take place in Islamabad, Pakistan, on February 3rd and 4th. The Indian Davis Cup team, under tight security, is currently engaged in rigorous practice sessions on Pakistani soil. Let's delve into the Indian team's composition, the Davis Cup format, India's historical performances in the tournament, and key details about the upcoming clash.
Historic return to Pakistan
India's Davis Cup team is making a significant return to Pakistan after a hiatus of six decades, dating back to 1964. The previous encounter between India and Pakistan occurred in Kazakhstan in 2019, resulting in an even finish. However, in 1964, India triumphed over Pakistan with a resounding 4-0 victory in Lahore.
Davis Cup format
The Davis Cup unfolds through a format featuring five matches between two competing teams, consisting of four singles matches and one doubles match. The team securing victory in three of these matches emerges triumphant in the tie. In the World Group One playoffs of Davis Cup, 24 national teams will fight it out for supremacy, with the 12 winning teams advancing to the World Group One match. Conversely, the defeated teams will be relegated to World Group-2.
India's remarkable Davis Cup performances:
India's illustrious Davis Cup history boasts standout moments in 1966, 1974, and 1987 when they reached the runner-up position. Notably, Pakistan earned their place in the World Group-One by overpowering Indonesia with a 5-0 victory. In their last Davis Cup outing, India displayed dominance by defeating Morocco with a commendable 4-1 scoreline.
Indian Davis Cup team Lineup:
Yuki Bhambri, Ramkumar Ramanathan, N Sriram Balaji, Saketh Myneni, Nikki Kalianda Poonacha, and Digvijay SD Prajwal Dev (as a reserve). The team is under the guidance of Coach and Captain Zeeshan Ali.
Pakistan Davis Cup team lineup:
On the other side of the net, the Pakistan Davis Cup team is captained by Muhammad Abid and includes Muzammil Mortaza, Aizam Qureshi, Akeel Khan, Mohammad Shoaib, and Barkatullah.
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