Leander, Nirupama win opening qualifiers

Shailesh Soni

Indian tennis had a good day on Thursday, as two of its players advanced to the second round of the Australian Open 2001 qualifiers.

In the women's qualifier, Nirupama Vaidhyanathan defeated Nadia Johnston of Australia in straight sets 6-4, 6-3 in a first round match.

She will now face top seeded Allison Bradshaw of USA in the second round on Friday.

In the men's qualifier, Leander Paes defeated the 15th seed Jong-II Yoon of Korea 7-5, 6-4.

He will face Justin Bower of South Africa in the second round on Friday.