Colombo, June 18, 2025: Pakistan began their Billie Jean King Cup Asia/Oceania Group III campaign on a high note, securing a 2-1 victory over Tajikistan in their opening Group A encounter on Wednesday.
The tie, held in Colombo, started with a setback for Pakistan as Amina Qayyum was forced to retire due to injury in the opening singles match. Qayyum had made a strong start against Tajikistan’s Anisa Yakhyayeva, winning the first set 6-2 and leading 5-3 in the second. However, after losing the opening game of the third set, she was unable to continue, giving Tajikistan a 1-0 lead.
Pakistan bounced back in the second singles match, thanks to a commanding performance by veteran player Ushna Suhail. Suhail defeated Sayora Rajabaliyeva in straight sets, 6-3, 6-1, leveling the tie at 1-1.
The outcome came down to the decisive doubles match, where Ushna Suhail teamed up with Mehak Khokhar. The Pakistani duo dominated their Tajik opponents, Anisa Yakhyayeva and Somiya Takhtayeva, clinching the match in emphatic fashion with a 6-0, 6-1 win.
The 2-1 victory gives Pakistan an early boost in the group stage as they prepare for their next clash against Turkmenistan. The team is aiming to carry forward this winning momentum in the remaining fixtures of the tournament.
