Adelaide, March 12 -- Indian golfers Diksha Dagar and Vani Kapoor made steady starts at the Women's Australian Open, each returning an even-par 72 in the opening round to sit tied for 24th place on the leaderboard. Their performances placed them within reach of the leaders as the tournament got underway at Kooyonga Golf Club.

While Diksha and Vani opened solidly, it was a more difficult day for the other Indian participants. Hitaashee Bakshi and Avani Prashanth both carded rounds of 77 to finish tied for 98th, leaving them with a tough task ahead if they are to make the 36-hole cut. Pranavi Urs found herself further down the standings after posting a first-round score of 78.

At the top of the leaderboard, Darcey Harry and Alexandra Fors...