Ankita Raina
Credit: X/@ankita_champ
Changsha, China: Ankita Raina could not win the crucial second singles and later lost the decisive doubles match with partner Prarthana Thombare as a historic play-offs place slipped out of India's grasp after a 1-2 defeat to New Zealand in the Billie Jean King Cup here on Saturday.
India remained in Asia/Oceania Group I by finishing third in the tournament.
Rutuja Bhosale put India ahead with her 6-2 7-6(5) win over Monique Barry in the opening singles.
Raina needed to win the next match against world number 169 Lulu Sun but was outgunned 2-6 0-6. A victory in that match would have earned India a place in the play-offs for the first time.
India had another chance in the doubles match but the combo of Raina and Thombare lost the contest 1-6 5-7 to Paige Hourigan and Erin Routliffe.
India finished third in the six-team Group I and will compete at the same level next year.