‘Intense’ Davis duel tipped

MANILA. Philippines — Expect an intense, top-class Davis Cup encounter between the Philippines and Pakistan.

That’s the pledge made by the manager of the Cebuana Lhuillier-Philippine Davis Cup squad, Jean Henri Lhuillier, who said the team has prepared well for the Group 2 semifinal tie slated Friday to Sunday at Philippine Columbian Association courts in Paco, Manila.

“This is one of the most exciting Davis Cup ties in the Asia Oceania region with two players from both country ranked No. 14 and No. 20 in the world doubles,” said Lhuillier.

The Davis Cup squad, made up of Treat Huey, Ruben Gonzales, Johnny Arcilla and Patrick John Tierro, is sponsored by Cebuana Lhuillier, Yonex and the Philippine Sports Commission.

Team captain is Roland Kraut. The drawing of lots will be held this Thursday at Parañaque City Hall with Mayor Edwin Olivarez, who is also the president of the Philippine Tennis Association, presiding.

The 28-year-old Huey, who ranks No. 20 in world doubles, will team up with Gonzales in the doubles.

The pair is also shooting for a medal in the coming Asian Games in Korea.

But the Pakistanis are also formidable with Aisan Qureshi, No. 16 in world doubles, heading a team that includes Aqeel Khan, Yasir Khan and Muhammad Abid.

Team captain is Mohammed Khalid. The Philippines has a 5-1 all-time record against Pakistan.