
New Delhi: As widely predicted, Saina Nehwal defeated Belaetrix Manuputi of Indonesia 21-12, 21-15 to enter the second round of India Open here on Wednesday at the Siri Fort Complex.
The world No.2, coming off a three-week layoff, did not look rusty on the court and sailed past Balaetrix in the first game. Saina toyed with the Indonesian by forcing long rallies and employing some well-disguised drop shots.
But as the second game began, Saina started to make some unforced errors and that allowed Belaetrix to grab four consecutive points. However, the Indian got her act together to seal the match 21-15 in 33 minutes.
"It is a good start to the tournament and I'm happy with my performance. Moreover the three weeks rest before the start of the event helped me," said Saina after the match before giving credit to her opponent. "She is a talented player and plays well at the net but I was ready for her cross-court shots....
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08:25 PM, Apr 24, 2013