New Delhi: Tensions between India and Pakistan over the Kashmir issue have escalated. That is why there is a doubt about India's participation in the Davis Cup to be held in Pakistan. Therefore, the national tennis federation of India can urge the international tennis federation (ITF) to host the Davis Cup match to be held in Islamabad next month at a neutral place and the host federation said it would respect the decision.
India's two-day match against Pakistan is scheduled to be played in the Pakistani capital from September 14. Pakistan Tennis Federation Chief Salim Saifullah Khan admitted that tensions between the two countries have increased and the ITF will respect whatever decision the PTF takes. Salim said Islamabad is still a safe place. Tension has certainly increased, but it can be reduced. For us too, the safety of the players is on top. Victory or defeat does not matter, safety is a must.
He said it is too early to say whether the match should be held at a neutral venue. But if the ITF feels that the venue of the match has to be changed, we will follow its orders. Pakistan on Wednesday decided to reduce diplomatic relations with India after Section 370, which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir, was removed by the central government. India's envoy to Pakistan was also asked to leave the country. Since then, the relationship between the two has become strained.
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