Thai girl clinches ITF singles title

Published September 2, 2006

KARACHI, Sept 1: Fourth seed Parichart Charoensukployphol stamped her authority when she walked away with second ITF girls’ singles crown in a week, beating top seed Prariyawat Ratanakrong in straight sets in the All-Thailand final at the Islamabad Club on Friday.

Parichart who was home 6-3, 6-1 proved that her triumph over Karina Ahuja by identical score line on Aug 26 was not a flash in a pan.

Both fought neck-and neck until 3-3 in the first set by holding their respective service. However, hitting some powerful shots, Parichart succeeded in breaking seventh game and build up 4-3 lead. She then never looked back winning the first set 6-3.

Parichart completely dominated the second set with her strong forehand and backhand drives and kept her opponent on the run. She rounded off the match by winning 6-1. The triumph also earned her 30 ITF Ranking points.

Ratanakrong got some consolation when teaming up with Vishakha Sheoran of India she grabbed the girls’ doubles title. The pair whipped Karina Ahuja- Mohana Chintala of India 6-4, 6-3.

This was also their second successive doubles victory.

The boys’ doubles title went to Ryan Cheung (US) - Krittanu Puthong (Thai) who overcame a stiff challenge from twin Sood brothers - Chandril and Lakshit - 6-2, 2-6, 6-1.

Results: (finals)

Girls’ singles:

Parichart Charoensukployphol (Thai) bt Prariyawat Ratanakrong (Thai) 6-3, 6-1.

Girls’ doubles:

Prariyawat Ratanakrong (Thai) - Vishaka Sheoran (Ind) bt Mohana Chintala -Karina Ahuja (Ind) 6-4, 6-3.

Boys’ doubles:

Ryan Cheung (US) - Krittanu Puthong (Thai) bt Chandril Sood - Lakshit Sood (Ind) 6-2, 2-6, 6-1.

Saturday’s fixtures:

Boys’ singles final: (Ronak Manuja v Chandril Sood) 3pm.