Host India went down fighting 1-2 in a thriller against New Zealand, as World No. 41 Lulu Sun pulled her weight in both singles and doubles for the Kiwis in the Asia-Oceania Billie Jean King Cup women’s tennis championship at the Balewadi Stadium on Tuesday.
In a vibrant atmosphere, Ankita Raina and Prarthana Thombare saved three match points on Lulu’s serve before bowing out 3-6, 4-6 in the decisive doubles.
Ankita and Prarthana had led 4-2 in the second set before the Kiwis, both left-handers, regrouped their game to match the craft and intensity of the Indian pair.
Shrivalli Bhamidipaty had earlier given a rousing start to the host by winning the first singles 6-1, 6-1 against Aishi Das. Serving well and stroking with flair, Shrivalli was concentration personified in executing a fine opener for India.
Shrivalli Bhamidipaty gave a bright start for the host.
| Photo Credit:
Kamesh Srinivasan
Shrivalli Bhamidipaty gave a bright start for the host.
| Photo Credit:
Kamesh Srinivasan
Sahaja Yamalapalli fought hard in the second singles against the Wimbledon quarterfinalist, but Lulu raced to a 6-3, 6-3 win to bring her team back in the tie.
India will next play Thailand on Wednesday.
Thailand beat Hong Kong and Korea got past Thailand in the other matches of the day.
The results (league):
New Zealand bt India 2-1 (Aishi Das lost to Shrivalli Bhamidipaty 1-6, 1-6; Lulu Sun bt Sahaja Yamalapalli 6-3, 6-3; Lulu Sun & Monique Barry bt Ankita Raina & Prarthana Thombare 6-3, 6-4).