India Edges Korea 2-1 in Billie Jean King Cup, Keeps World Group Hopes Alive

India Edges Korea 2-1 in Billie Jean King Cup, Keeps World Group Hopes Alive

The Indian women’s tennis team continued their impressive run in the Asia-Oceania group-1 Billie Jean King Cup, securing a crucial 2-1 victory over Korea in the penultimate league match. The triumph keeps India’s hopes alive of qualifying for the World Group play-off.

Rutuja Bhosale once again proved to be a reliable force for India, delivering a dominant performance in the opening singles match. She dispatched Sohyun Park in straight sets, 6-2, 6-2, giving India an early advantage.

However, Korea fought back in the second singles match, with Sujeong Jang overcoming Ankita Raina in straight sets, 6-2, 6-3. The match was evenly contested, but Jang’s consistency and powerful groundstrokes ultimately proved too much for Raina.

With the tie level at 1-1, the doubles match became crucial. Ankita Raina and Prarthana Thombare stepped up to the challenge, showcasing their exceptional teamwork and court coverage. They outplayed the Korean duo of Kim Dabin and Sohyun Park, winning in straight sets, 6-4, 6-4.

India’s victory was a testament to their resilience and determination. They had previously secured a thrilling doubles win against Taiwan, surviving three match points to keep their hopes alive.

The Indian team will now face New Zealand in their final league match on Saturday. New Zealand has also won two matches so far, against Taiwan and Pacific Oceania.

China remains firmly in control of the six-team competition, having won all their matches so far. They will face Korea in their last league match.