Pakistan U12 tennis team defeats India to reach ATF South Asia Championship final

Pakistan's under-12 boys' tennis team delivered a commanding performance on Thursday, defeating arch-rivals India 2-0 in the semifinals of the Asian Tennis Federation (ATF) South Asia Championship to book a spot in the final against hosts Sri Lanka.

The young squad showcased exceptional skill and composure, with Rashid Ali overcoming BC Thanush Shekar 6-2, 6-3, followed by a dominant win from Muhammad Shayan Afridi, who outplayed Khatri Nayan 6-0, 6-1. 

The straight-sets victories highlighted Pakistan's growing strength in junior tennis. Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF) President Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi celebrated the achievement, calling it a proud moment for the country.

Read: Pakistan’s young tennis team makes history, wins Davis Cup Juniors 2025

"Beating our arch-rival India in the semifinal is a tremendous achievement," said Aisam, while expressing optimism for the upcoming match, saying, “Hopefully, tomorrow we will defeat Sri Lanka and lift the championship."

He contrasted the U-12 team's dominant display with Pakistan’s narrow loss to India in last week's U-16 Davis Cup tie in Kazakhstan, noting the impressive growth of the younger players.

PTF Secretary General Col Zia-ud-Din Tufail also appreciated the team, calling their performance "simply amazing" and lauding their unbeaten run throughout the tournament.

Pakistan cruised through the group stage earlier in the championship, securing 3-0 victories over the Maldives, Bangladesh, and Nepal, a clean sweep that set the tone for their semifinal triumph.

The final against Sri Lanka is scheduled for Friday, with Pakistan aiming to bring home the regional title and continue their winning momentum.