India lost 3-0 against Uzbekistan, finishes fourth in Fed Cup

Christchurch, Apr 21 (UNI) Indian eves finished fourth in the in the Fed Cup Asia-Oceania qualification round, as they lost to Uzbekistan 3-0 here today.

In both singles, Indians went down in straight sets against a seasoned Uzbek team. First an inexperienced Tara Iyer, who made her debut for India in this event, lost 6-4, 7-6(3) against Albina Khabibulina, while Ankita Bhambri was bogged down by Dilyara Saidkhodjaeva 4-6, 4-6.

In the doubles, the pair of Tara and Ankita did show some resistance and played brilliant tennis, but were eventually defeated by the Uzbek duo in a thrilling tie-breaker in the deciding set 3-6, 7-6, 7-6(11).

Earlier yesterday, India lost to Chinese Taipei in their final Group B Asia-Oceania Zone Group I qualifiers, thus ending all their hopes of advancing to the World Group play-offs.

UNI