The top seeded duo withdrew from the US$200,000 meet after one sustained an injury in Mexico, where the Brazilian duo fell to Ingrid Torlen and Nila Ann Hakedal of Norway in the third place play-off last week.

Due to their absence in the main draw, the organisers have had to stage a pre-qualifying round, with the winners eligible to play in the main draw, while the losers make the cut for the qualifying round.

Americans April Ross and Nancy Mason came from behind to beat compatriots Dianne De Necochea and Holly McPeak 12-21 21-19 15-9.

As for the Thai team, Kamolthip Kulna and Jarunee Sannok are waiting to see the draw.

"We do not dare to aim high, but we hope to get a good draw. We do not want to face the stronger teams from the US and China in the early rounds," said Kamolthip, who has a knee injury.

Apart from Thailand's Kamolthip and Jarunee, Yupa Phukrongpoly and Usa Tenpaksee are also eligible to play in the main draw.

Thailand's four teams, who will compete in the qualifying rounds, are Plunjit Kleepjumpee and Niphaporn Kaewpila, Maneerat Udomchavee and Rinsai Preepram, Nonglak Khorsoongneon and Suphannee Doksantia and Pittawan Wongchaiya and Julalak Radarong. The qualifying rounds start today from 9am.

The draw in both qualification and main round were made yesterday at Kata Beach Resort.

The tournament features six courts, one the centre court with a 4,000-seat grandstand.

Somporn Suphop

The Nation

Phuket