‘Head of State’ Security for Indian Davis Cup Team in Pakistan

Islamabad: In a historic move, the Indian Davis Cup team has travelled to Pakistan after six decades, prompting the Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF) to implement an extensive security arrangement, which is usually accorded to the Head of State. The PTF, keen on ensuring the safety of the visiting players, has deployed a bomb disposal squad to sanitize the Islamabad Sports Complex daily.

The multi-layered security plan, approved by the International Tennis Federation (ITF), involves two escort vehicles shadowing the Indian team throughout their travels. Col Gul Rehman, the event security manager and PTF Secretary General, emphasized the heightened precautions due to the significant visit.

With the Indian players primarily restricted to the venue and hotel, the PTF’s security measures include VVIP entry for the team at the hotel and air surveillance in Islamabad. As the general elections approach, security measures are already stringent, with around 10,000 cameras deployed in the city.

Rehman highlighted the honour of hosting the Indian team and stressed the commitment to sports diplomacy. Despite the generally relaxed demeanour of the Indian contingent, the players remain vigilant, acknowledging preconceived notions about Pakistan.

The choice of a grass surface by Pakistan aims to play to their strengths, although the limited allowance of only 500 fans in the stadium hinders the typical home advantage. The PTF is negotiating with the ITF to potentially increase the number of spectators for a more spirited atmosphere.

Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi expressed the challenges of hosting with restricted fan attendance but remains hopeful for a resolution in the coming days. The tie marks a significant moment in sports diplomacy between the two neighbouring nations.