Sikha gets wildcard in Sunfeast open

Kolkata, Sep 14 (UNI) Fed cupper Shikha Uberoi, who reached doubles finals and singles quarter-finals here last year, has been awarded a wild card in the main draw of the Sunfeast Open.

The US-based Indian joins superstar Sania Mirza to lead India's challenge in the 175,000 dollar WTA Tier III tournament which will also see in action former World No.1 and current World No.9 Martina Hingis in the dazzling player field.

Shikha had a good run in the singles during Sunfeast Open 2005 where she upset 8th seeded Rika Fujiwara from Japan, but was unlucky to run into top seed and eventual champion Anastasia Myskina in the quarter-finals.

Teaming up with sister Neha Uberoi, she also reached the doubles finals last September where the sisters lost a thrilling final in three sets.

Shikha has been very impressive with her consistent performances on the WTA tour since her debut in 2004. In her Grand Slam debut as World No.275 qualifier at US Open 2004, she signalled her arrival by defeating World No 56 Saori Obata and leading 4-1 over Venus Williams in the second round before going down 7-5 6-1.

She is presently ranked at 194 on the WTA rankings and will be making full use of the opportunity at the Sunfeast Open to prove her mettle. Shikha had a career-high singles ranking of No 122.

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