ISLAMABAD - The pair of Aqeel and Aisam kept Pakistan hopes alive in the Davis Cup Asia Oceania Group-II tie against Philippines as they won crucial doubles against Philippines’ pair of Treat Conrad Huey and Johhny Arcilla in straight sets.
Even after this green shirts’ comeback victory, Philippines still enjoys 2-1 lead and two reverse singles will decide the fate of the tie. Pakistan must have to win both the singles to win the crucial tie which the men in green never won against Philippines.
Talking to The Nation Saturday, Pakistan's No 1 Aqeel Khan said: “Like I have promised I will play my heart out and try to win the doubles, Aisam and I managed to win it. The first set was a very tight affair as both teams managed to hold onto their respective serves till the ninth game. We managed to break the 10th game to take the first set 6-4. In the second set, both the teams were locked at three games all but we break the seventh game and then again ninth to take the second set 6-3.”
Aqeel further said: “We were fully aware we can't afford to let opponents off the hook. So we break the seventh game and then again ninth game to take the third set 6-3, thus won the doubles encounter in straight sets.”
“It is do-or-die situation for us now as we have to win both reverse singles to win the tie, otherwise, it will be all over. I will play the first reverse singles against Ruben Gonzales and if I manage to beat Ruben, all will rest on the shoulders of Samir, who will face the decider against Patrick John Tierro,” he added.
“I still believe we have a very fair chance to win the tie. I will give more than 100 percent in the match and try to keep the tie alive by winning the match. We have played well and I was unlucky not to win the first singles, but it is past now and I am fully focusing on the task ahead,” Aqeel concluded.