Lulu does the star turn as New Zealand bounces back to down India

India falls 1-2 to New Zealand in a thrilling Billie Jean King Cup match, showcasing intense tennis battles.

The Indian team 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.

Playing 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 had earlier given a rousing start for 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.

Sahaja Yamalapalli fought hard in the second singles against the Wimbledon quarterfinalist, but Lulu raced ahead to put the Kiwis on par with a 6-3, 6-3 victory.

It was a tough start for Ankita and Prarthana in the doubles under the floodlights, before they made the competition come alive with some robust tennis and imaginative play.

The Kiwis were relieved to pull through, but India, under the guidance of captain Vishal Uppal, had given every hint of being well prepared for the challenges ahead.