Davis cup: India blank Pakistan 4-0, seal place in World Group I

Islamabad, February 4

The Indian Davis Cup team capped its historic visit to Pakistan after 60 years by sealing its place in the World Group I. India blanked Pakistan 4-0 with Yuki Bhambri and Saketh Myneni recording a comfortable victory and Niki Poonacha making a winning debut.

Taking the court with a 2-0 lead in pocket, Bhambri and Myneni subdued the home team of Muzammil Murtaza and Aqeel Khan 6-2 7-6(5) in the doubles rubber to extend India’s dominance over Pakistan in the tournament. Bhambri and the big-serving Myneni did not put a foot wrong in the match. Myneni hardly lost a point on his serve and was also superb at the net.

The 28-year-old Poonacha was then asked to play the dead fourth rubber against Muhammad Shoaib, which he won easily 6-3 6-4.

It was India’s eighth win against Pakistan in as many meetings in the event. India will compete in the World Group I in September.

“The organisation was spot on. All the arrangements were good. We thank the Pakistan Tennis Federation for being wonderful hosts,” India captain Zeeshan Ali said.