India, April 8 -- India had to produce something special to stay afloat after losing their opening tie against Thailand 2-1 in the Billie Jean King Cup (Asia/Oceania Group 1). After losing to the Thais-the tie could not be completed overnight due to rain interruptions-India swept aside New Zealand 3-0.

There is a long way to go to secure a playoff berth for the second successive year. India must fight it out against the other teams-Korea, Mongolia and Indonesia, which has world No.41 Janice Tjen.

The tie against Thailand was a jolt as India lost the tie after losing the second singles rubber as well. In the morning, Sahaja Yamalapalli lost the second singles to Patcharin Cheapchandej (6-4, 1-6, 6-4). Up a break in the decider, Patcharin...