Radhika tulpule

Billie Jean King Cup Asia: India went down 1-2 to the Billie Jean King Cup Asia-Oceania Group 1 tie, kicking off their campaign with a defeat on the opening day of the prestigious team tournament for women that India is hosting for the first time.

While the hosts began brightly with the dynamic Shrivalli Bhamidipaty registering a resounding win in her match, it was New Zealand who had more in the tank on the day, and roared back to win the tie 2-1, here at the Balewadi Sports Complex in Pune.

Up first for India was Shrivalli Bhamidipaty, who was facing Aishi Das. The Indian youngster, who has been steadily going up the rankings so far, put on a power-packed performance in the national colours. In just under an hour, Shrivalli wrapped up a comprehensive win with six aces and a healthy break-point conversion rate to win the contest 6-1, 6-1, and give India a 1-0 lead.