While the India-Pakistan Davis Cup tie is hailed as historic, the All India Tennis Association (AITA) has taken an unusual approach by restricting players from speaking to the media. The India vs Pakistan Davis Cup 2024 Playoff game will be played on February 3-4 in Islamabad.
AITA Secretary General Anil Dhupar stated, “Not possible. No players (sic) is allowed to speak with press,” indicating an unexpected media silence during the team’s first visit to Pakistan in 60 years. Traditionally, player-media interaction is standard before Davis Cup ties, but this restriction raises questions about transparency.
Dhupar didn’t provide a clear explanation for the media ban, but it’s believed to be linked to a code of conduct implemented in November. This code prohibits players and officials from engaging with the media a week before, during, and a week after a tie.
This decision stems from a controversy in September when Mukund Sasikumar wore a jersey with his personal sponsor’s name during the tie against Morocco in Lucknow. Despite the official nature of the interaction facilitated by team managers, the code remains in effect.
The mystery surrounding this move and its impact on players’ media accessibility persists, especially with the ATP Challenger in Chennai scheduled immediately after the Davis Cup tie. Dhupar, known for controversies, previously refused to nominate Sumit Nagal for the Australian Open wildcard, citing the player’s unavailability for the Pakistan clash without following due process.
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