Tennis: Rea wins opening Davis Cup match for Kiwis

6.10pm - By DAVE WORSLEY

Kiwi number two Simon Rea has beaten India's top player Harsh Mankad in straight sets in the first match of their Davis Cup tie in Invercargill.

Rea defeated Mankad 6-4 6-1 7-6 (7-2) to give New Zealand a 1-0 lead overall in the Asia/Oceania Group One tie.

The North Harbour 21 year old, who is currently attending the University of Tennessee, was ecstatic with his victory on debut for New Zealand.

"It's a dream come true. Playing for my country is a huge deal," he said. "Under the circumstances this win is right up there. (But) I have played better tennis as far as ball striking."

The second singles match features New Zealand number one Mark Nielsen against Indian number two Leander Paes.