Thailand blank Indonesia
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Thailand blanked Indonesia 3-0 in their opening Pool A tie of the Fed Cup Zone Asia/Oceania at the National Tennis Centre in the Kazakhstan capital of Astana on Wednesday.
The Thai team comprised the Kingdom’s top four players, Luksika Kumkhum, Noppawan Lertcheewakarn, Tamarine Tanasugarn and Varatchaya Wongteanchai.
Thai No 2 Noppawan drew first blood for Thailand when she tamed Deria Nur Haliza 6-3 6-2. Then world No 105 Luksika showed she had recovered from a bout of food poisoning by ousting Lavinia Tananta 7-6 (7-5) 6-0.
In the doubles Varatchaya and Tamarine Tanasugarn defeated Tami Grende and Tananta 6-3 6-2 to clinch the third point.
“I was a bit shaky at the start as she made me move a lot and didn’t allow me to find my rhythm. I felt a bit tired too as I was just recovering from illness. But overall I am fairly satisfied with my form,” said Lukiska.
Thailand had a rest yesterday and will take on hosts Kazakhstan today for a play-off tomorrow against the top finisher from Pool B.
“After the break, the team should feel fresher for the tie against Kazakhstan. They know what to expect from the host team,” said Thai captain Preeyakorn Saleevoraroj (formerly known as Napaporn Tongsalee).
