Sania to wed Shoaib, settle in Dubai

India’s ace tennis player, Sania Mirza is to marry Shoaib Malik, the former cricket captain of Pakistan. The wedding has been scheduled within a month.

“The couple will be based in Dubai, where Shoaib is a resident and Sania will continue to play tennis once she recovers fully from the serious wrist injury,” Sania’s father, Mr Imran Mirza, told this newspaper on Monday.

Sania is understandably excited about her marriage. “My wedding is, Inshallah, going to be the biggest day of my life,” the 23-year-old said, adding, “I have been in constant glare for too long and would appreciate the privacy at this very personal moment in my life.”

In a statement, Shoaib vowed to support Sania in her career. “I fully understand what it takes to be an international sportsperson and I will support Sania in her career as long as she wishes to play,” the cricketer said, while confirming the news.

Sania recently broke off her engagement with Mr Sohrab Mirza, a childhood friend. Shoaib was involved in a controversy over marrying Ms Ayesha Siddiqui, a Hyderabadi. Ms Siddiqui is also known to Sania’s family.

“Representing India at the 2012 Olympics is very important for her and I will be the proudest husband if she can win a medal for her country,” Shoaib added.

Sania, a former top-30 player, is planning a comeback just before Wimbledon in June. “I hope to be fully fit to represent India in the Commonwealth and Asian Games that are scheduled for later this year,” she said.

Imran, who has coached Sania through her career, observed: “This is a unique case where the husband and wife will represent their respective countries in sport.”

Sania’s mother, Ms Nasima Mirza, was delighted. “Marriages are made in heaven,” she said.