Karachi: Pakistan defeated Tadsjikistan 2-1 in their group a draw of Billie Jean King Cup Asia/Oceania Zone Group III Tuesday in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
Despite an early setback in the opening camp, Pakistan ran back strongly to demand a draw.
Amna Ali Qayum, who played the first single rubber, was forced to retire after an injury in the decisive set against Tajikistan’s Anisa Yakhyaeva after leading early in the match. The final score was 6-1, 5-7, 0-1 (retired), giving Tajikistan a 1-0 lead.
AMNA led 2nd sets 5-3 after winning the first set 6-1 when she was injured, she decided to end the match but withdrew in the third set.
However, Ushna Suhail equalized a draw with a commanding equal victory over Saiyora Rajabalieva, 6-3, 6-1, in the second single match.
In the crucial double rubber, Ushna collaborated with Meheq Khokhar to deliver a dominant 6-0, 6-1 victory over the Tajik par with Yakhyaeva and Sumaya Tukhtaeva, which seals the tape 2-1 to Pakistan’s advantage.
The result increases Pakistan’s hope of moving forward in the tournament with their next match planned against Turkmenistan on Thursday.
A team of four members represents Pakistan in Billie Jean King Cup/Oceania, which takes place in Sri Lanka.
According to Pakistan Tennis Federation, for the choice of Pakistan Billie Jean King Cup team, the PTF Tennis complex was completed.
Eight players were encouraged to participate in the background of PTF locations. Ushna was exempt from the trials because of her recent excellent performances, a press release said.
The selected team members include Sara Mansoor, former Pakistan number 1, as non-playing captain, AMNA, MEHEQ and Sheeza Sajid.
