The Pakistan Tennis Federation has announced a carefully selected three-player team to participate in the Billie Jean King Cup Juniors (U-16) Pre-Qualifying Event scheduled for March 16–21, 2026, in Colombo. Following trials in Islamabad, Hajra Sohail, Zunaisha Noor, and Romaisa Malik have been chosen to represent Pakistan in this prestigious international tournament.
The selection process involved two days of trials at the national tennis complex in Islamabad on February 14–15, 2026. Six contenders competed for a position on the team, with the final selections made based on their match performance, consistency, discipline on the court, and their latest national rankings. The selectors praised the players for their tactical skills and mental toughness, particularly in high-pressure situations.
Hajra Sohail has showcased a well-rounded game with consistent performance in national junior circuits. Zunaisha Noor stood out with her aggressive playing style and effective serve, while Romaisa Malik demonstrated impressive discipline in her returns and agility on the court. The selected players will travel together, accompanied by team officials from the federation.
The pre-qualifying event represents an important opportunity for young athletes to test their skills against competitors from the region, gaining crucial international exposure ahead of larger continental contests. The event is designed not only for competition but also for player development, targeting upcoming talent in junior tennis.
With much at stake, the Pakistani team will aim to convert their strong domestic performances into success on international courts. Preparation will involve adjustments to the local playing conditions, scouting potential opponents, and refining their doubles strategies, a key factor in team events. The federation is working on finalizing logistics and a training regimen to ensure the players are adequately prepared prior to their departure.
Federation officials have expressed their congratulations to the selected athletes and shared a sense of optimism regarding their chances. They emphasized that events like these serve as critical platforms for nurturing young talent essential for the sport’s future in Pakistan. There is a focused effort to create a pathway that allows players to transition into competitive senior events in the years to come.
While the priority remains on skill development over immediate results, the federation is hopeful that the team will put forth a strong performance in Colombo. Success at this stage could instill confidence in the players and increase their exposure to international competition. Above all, the officials highlighted that the experience of competing abroad—dealing with travel, adapting to various court conditions, and managing match-day pressure—will be invaluable for the young trio.
The conclusion of the trials marks the beginning of an intense preparation period as Hajra Sohail, Zunaisha Noor, and Romaisa Malik get ready to represent Pakistan on the regional junior stage. With dedication, strategic planning, and the backing of their federation, they aim to seize this exciting opportunity in Colombo.