Shymkent, Kazakhstan – Team India wrapped up their Asia-Oceania Junior Davis Cup campaign on a high with a thrilling 2-0 win over Pakistan in the 11th-place playoff — but it was a tense post-match moment that grabbed the headlines.
Emotions ran high at the net following Tavish Pahwa’s dramatic comeback win over Pakistan’s Mikaeel Ali Baig. As Pahwa extended his hand for the customary handshake, Baig appeared to ignore the gesture and walked past. Standing firm, Pahwa didn’t budge — prompting the Pakistani teen to return, complete the handshake, and shout, “I’m not mad at you,” in a visibly agitated tone.
Watch the video below:
The clip, posted on our platforms, quickly went viral — drawing sharp reactions from fans who criticized Baig’s behavior as disrespectful and unsportsmanlike.
On court, however, the Indian boys displayed remarkable grit and composure. Prakaash Sarran kicked things off by bouncing back from a first-set tie-break loss to defeat Abu Bakar Talha 6-7(2), 6-3, [10-4]. Pahwa followed up with a gritty 4-6, 6-2, [12-10] win to seal the tie in India’s favor.
Earlier, India narrowly lost 1-2 to New Zealand in the 9th–12th place playoff, falling in a heartbreaking 9-11 super tie-break in doubles.
Japan clinched the Junior Davis Cup Asia-Oceania title by beating Korea 2-0 in the final. Chinese Taipei secured third place with a 3-0 victory over China. The top four teams — Japan, Korea, Chinese Taipei, and China — qualified for the World Group stage in Europe.
India finished 11th out of 16 nations, ahead of Pakistan, Indonesia, Iran, Jordan, and Malaysia.
Stay tuned to Indian Tennis Daily for exclusive coverage and behind-the-scenes moments from our junior stars’ journey on the international stage.