Bopanna, Mankad bow out of ATP Challenger

Belgaum:

Rohan Bopanna and Harsh Mankad bowed out of the Belgaum Open ATP Challenger today, ending India's campaign in the singles. In the pre-quarterfinals, Bopanna fought till the very end but was pipped at the post by unseeded Russian Teimuraz Gabashvili, who won the battle of wits 6-7 (8-10), 6-4, 7-6 (7-4) in a match lasting two-and-a-half-hours. In comparison, Mankad was subdued losing 4-6, 3-6 to unseeded Swissman Stephane Bohli, who gave a good account of himself and was in control throughout the match. However, the duo of Mustafa Ghouse and Vishal Uppal kept the host country's hopes alive by moving into the title round in the doubles. Ghouse and Uppal advanced to the doubles final after coming from behind to beat compatriots Vishal Punna and Sunil Kumar Sipaeya 4-6, 6-2, 6-3. (PTI)