Changsha (China), Apr 13 (PTI) 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.

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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.

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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.

(The above story is verified and authored by Press Trust of India (PTI) staff. PTI, India’s premier news agency, employs more than 400 journalists and 500 stringers to cover almost every district and small town in India.. The views appearing in the above post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY)