Media365
NEW DELHI: N Sriram Balaji and Rithvik Choudary Bollipalli secured India’s place in the Davis Cup World Group I with a commanding straight-set victory, handing the hosts an unassailable 3-0 lead against Togo in the play-off tie on Sunday.
With a 2-0 advantage, India needed to win just one of the three matches, and the duo of Balaji and Bollipalli accomplished the task in the opening contest against M’lapa Tingou Akomolo and Hod’abalo Isak Padio, winning 6-2, 6-1 in just 57 minutes at the DLTA Complex.
Togo replaced their top player, Thomas Setodji, with M’lapa Tingou Akomolo due to an arm injury, which proved detrimental as Akomolo struggled to hold serve throughout the match. Balaji’s serving was exceptional, losing only one point on his serve during the entire contest.
The Indians gained their first break when Akomolo served in the third game, and from there, it was a one-sided affair. Bollipalli, making his debut, overcame initial nerves and settled into the match, contributing significantly to the victory.
The pair’s experience of winning a Challenger together last year proved advantageous, as they displayed a straightforward and efficient performance. India is likely to give young Karan Singh a debut in the dead rubber match.
Balaji and Bollipalli’s convincing straight-set victory sealed India’s place in the Davis Cup World Group I, showcasing their dominance and leaving Togo with little chance for a comeback.
