Rediff.com« Back to articlePrint this article

Shokeen-Singh help India to victory

November 14, 2007 15:48 IST

Ashutosh Singh lost the sinlges but combined with Vivek Shokeen to win the doubles as India sealed the first leg of the tennis series against Pakistan 2-1 at defence club tennis courts in Lahore on Wednesday.

National Champion Ashutosh lost the second sinlges to Paksitan's top player Aisam-ul-Haq-Qureshi 3-6, 4-6, allowing hosts to darw parity.

Shokeen had put India ahead after defeating Aqeel Khan in staright sets in the first singles on Tuesday.

Aisam served big and capitalised on break-points in the both the sets to overpower Ashutosh and tie the series 1-1.

The doubles tie became decisive and the Delhi boys did not disappoint.

They beat experienced Davis Cup duo of Aisam and Aqeel 7-6(5), 6-2 to take the honours in the first leg.

The hosts put up a good fight in the first-set tie breaker but were found wanting in spirit in the second and conceded the first leg.

The second and final leg of the series will be played in Islamabad from Thursday.

© Copyright 2024 PTI. All rights reserved. Republication or redistribution of PTI content, including by framing or similar means, is expressly prohibited without the prior written consent.