Astana: Sania Mirza combined with Prarthana Thombare to win the deciding doubles rubber and help India beat New Zealand 2-1 in the last Pool D match in the Asia/Oceania Group II competition in Fed Cup, here today.

Playing her first live match, Sania and Prarthana beat Maria Erakovic and Abigail Guthrie 7-5 6-1 to win and put India atop Pool D. Prarthana had put India ahead by winning the first singles against Dianne Holland 6-1 6-4.

However, Erakovic, who is world number 32 in doubles, brought her side back in the tie with 6-1 6-2 win over Ankita Raina.

The doubles became crucial and Sania, used all her experience to win it for India. Now India will play Hong Kong, winner of Group A, tomorrow.