Ashutosh Singh lost the singles but combined with Vivek Shokeen to win the doubles as India sealed the first leg of the tennis series against Pakistan 2-1 at Defence Club courts here on Wednesday.
National hard-court champion Ashutosh lost the second singles to Pakistan top player Aisam-ul-Haq-Qureshi 3-6 4-6, allowing hosts to draw parity.
Shokeen had put India ahead after defeating Aqeel Khan in straight sets in the first singles on Tuesday. Aisam served big and capitalised on break-points in the both the sets to overpower Ashutosh and tie the series 1-1.
The doubles game became decisive and the Delhi boys did not disappoint.
They beat Aisam and Aqeel 7-6 (5), 6-2 to take the honours in the first leg. The second and final leg of the series will be played in Islamabad from Thursday.