Pune: Shrivalli Bhamadipaty Shines as India Defeats Thailand in Billie Jean King Cup
In a spirited display on the court at the Balewadi Sports Complex in Pune, 23-year-old Shrivalli Bhamadipaty captivated the audience, even if a group of school children took some time to cheer her name. They eventually caught on, fueling the atmosphere as Shrivalli took the stage.
Facing off against Thailand’s world No. 170, Lanlana Tararudee, Shrivalli, currently ranked No. 345, delivered an impressive performance, winning in straight sets, 6-2, 6-4, in just 75 minutes. This victory provided India with an essential lead against a tough Thai side in the Billie Jean King Cup Asia/Oceania Group 1.
The match came just one day after India suffered a loss to New Zealand, making this win even more crucial. After Shrivalli’s success, Thailand’s top player, Manachaya Sawangkaew, ranked 110, tied the match after India’s Sahaja Yamalapalli had to retire due to cramps. However, the Indian duo of Ankita Raina and Prarthana Thombare stepped in to clinch the tie for India with a nail-biting victory in the doubles match, finishing 7-6(3), 3-6, 10-3 against Peangtarn Plipuech and Patcharin Cheapchandej.
This victory marked an important step for the Indian team as they aim for a spot in the playoffs for only the second time. Captain Vishal Uppal praised Shrivalli’s performance, saying she set the perfect tone for the team after their recent defeat.
Shrivalli played with confidence, showing powerful strokes and an effective serve. "I wasn’t nervous at all," she shared. "I didn’t look at the rankings; I just focused on playing my game. I felt completely in the zone." Throughout the match, she broke Tararudee’s serve four times while only being broken once, showcasing her strong play.
With this victory, Shrivalli has now secured two wins in a row at the Billie Jean King Cup, building momentum after her previous match against Aishi Das from New Zealand. “The win against Das relieved some pressure,” Uppal noted.
As the Indian team prepares to face Hong Kong next, they will be counting on Shrivalli to maintain her impressive form and help lead them toward further success.
