Shruti struts skill in style

Rushmi, however, earned some consolation later when parterning Sai Jayalakshmy quelled a spirited challenge from the Venkataraman siblings 7-5, 3-6, 7-6 7-4 in 143 minutes to win the doubles.

Despite being troubled by a back problem, Shruti, who accounted for three seeded players in the tournament including top seed Sai and third seed Anna Nafedova of Russia, became richer by 650. Rushmi, had to be content with a cheque of 450 dollars.

Rushmi had the game and technique but lacked the patience to keep the ball in play. She failed to stabilise on her good serves. On the other hand, Shruti knew her negative points well and at times, served underhand.

The winner covered up the backlog with her superb returns.

The first set was a see-saw battle after the scores were levelled at 3-3. Rushmi held the seventh and broke the eighth to lead 5-3. In the last game Rushmi led 40-30, Shruti bounced back to deuce but Rushmi, with a crosscourt, snatched the game to hold and win 6-3.

After having got the serve in the second set and until the finish, Shruti dominated the proceedings and forced her opponent to go in for unforced errors.

Rushmi struck to base line and failed to plug in the gaps.

Shruti charged into the net when occasion arose and was quick in position for her shots. She went on gracefully with her flow of shots and read her opponent well.

There were three double faults in the 11th game but Shruti managed to hold the game.

8220;Serves were bad and my underhand too didn8217;t click. But I played really well. Yesterday8217;s game against Sai Jayalakshmy was satisfying,8221; said Shruti.

Rushmi said, 8220;My right shoulder gave me problems and every thingwent wrong after the second set.8221;