Yuki, Sanam complete 5-0 rout of Kiwis

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Sanam Singh was splendid in his victory after Yuki Bhambri huffed and puffed to a patchy win as India completed a 5-0 rout of New Zealand in the Davis Cup Asia/Oceania Group I relegation play-off tie, here on Sunday.

With the tie already in pocket, Yuki pushed India closer to a whitewash after he struggled past Jose Statham 2-6 7-5 7-6(5) in the fourth rubber, which lasted for two hours and 41 minutes under scorching sun.

Sanam, who had to wait for his turn until the last match, closed the tie in style with a dominating 6-4 6-1 win against Artem Sitak in one hour and 17 minutes.

Sanam's win was the first straight one for India in this tie as the other matches, except the second rubber, lasted full distance.

Three wins on the first two days had already ensured that India will stay in Group I for 2013 competition. The Kiwi team will fight it out with Chinese Taipei next month to retain its place in Group I.

It's the first time since the 2005 tie against Uzbekistan that India have whitewashed an opponent in Davis Cup.

The youngsters have already been rewarded for their good show as AITA has said it will stick to them till India competes in the Asia/Ocenia Group zone.

Since Mahesh Bhupathi and Rohan Bopanna will not be considered for selection for close to two years, these youngsters will be India's face in the Davis Cup.

Sanam found himself in the pit several times in the first set, but managed to get out every time. He was lighteningly quick on the court and had the sting in his shots. The two players exchanged serves in sixth and seven games to be locked 3-3.

A double fault by Sitak on a break point put Sanam ahead.

The Indian was again in danger of losing the advantage but saved three breakpoints before pocketing the set. The second set completely belonged to Sanam.

Earlier, Yuki overcame a sluggish start to set India up for a rout.