The Netherlands wrapped up a clinical 3–0 victory over India on the final day of the Billie Jean King Cup Play-offs at the SM Krishna Tennis Stadium, delivering a composed and commanding performance across all three rubbers.
The day began with Dutch player Marlou Koevermans setting the tone in the opening singles. Up against India’s Shrivalli Bhamidipaty (World No. 381), Koevermans broke early for a 2–1 lead and never loosened her grip on the match. Her consistency and court coverage forced errors from Bhamidipaty, helping her close out the first set 6–2.
The second set was more competitive, with the Indian pushing harder from the baseline, but Koevermans’ steadiness proved decisive as she completed a 6–2, 6–4 win.
Speaking after the match, Koevermans reflected on her approach: “I told the captain I wanted to run for every ball because it keeps me focused and forces my opponent to make more mistakes. It’s very important to run for every ball to stay in the game.”
In the second singles rubber, World No. 89 Suzan Lamens delivered another assured outing for the Dutch team, overpowering India’s Sahaja Yamalapalli (World No. 309) in straight sets. Lamens dominated the opening set 6–2 with her depth and pace, and although Sahaja fought back to level at 2–2 in the second, Lamens quickly reasserted control. A key break for 4–3 opened the door, and she closed out the match 6–2, 6–3.
Afterwards, Yamalapalli highlighted the challenge: “Suzan’s a very good player with a lot of experience. She challenged me every point and didn’t give me any unforced errors. It shows me the level I want to get to and what I need to learn.”
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With the tie already sealed, the doubles rubber saw Lamens return to partner Demi Schuurs against India’s seasoned pair Ankita Raina and Prarthana Thombare. The Dutch combination proved too strong from the outset, firing through the first set 6–1 and storming to a 3–0 lead in the second. Their aggression at the net and clean ball-striking kept India under pressure throughout, eventually securing a dominant 6–1, 6–1 victory.
The result gives the Netherlands a clinical 3–0 sweep, underlining their depth and experience across both singles and doubles. India, meanwhile, will take valuable lessons from the campaign as they look to rebuild and push for future opportunities on the Billie Jean King Cup stage.
