Tennis: NZ loses to Uzbekistan in Fed Cup

New Zealand has lost its Fed Cup women's tennis match against Uzbekistan 2-1 in Seoul and has been relegated to the Asia/Oceania Zone Group II.

In a tough encounter Leanne Baker was defeated by former top-20 player Iroda Tulyaganova 6-3 7-5.

Marina Erakovic then evened up the score with a good victory over the tall and powerful Akgul Amanmuradova who is ranked at 170. Erakovic won the match 7-5 6-1.

In the vital doubles Erakovic and Baker were beaten 6-4 7-5 by Amanmuradova and Tulyaganova.

Results: Iroda Tulyaganova bt Leanne Baker 6-3 7-5; Marina Erakovic bt Akgul Amanmuradova(UZB) 7-5 6-1 Amanmuradova/Tulyaganova bt Baker/Erakovic 6-4 7-5

- NZPA