Nalbandian Out, Lucky Loser In
Spaniard Inigo Cervantes-Huegin probably thought his tournament was over after losing his final match in the Heineken Open qualifying round.
But he received a second lease on life late in the day when Argentine David Nalbandian withdrew from the main draw with an abdominal strain.
Cervantes-Huegin, who had fallen 6-2 4-6 6-3 to Aussie James Lemke in qualifying, became the "very lucky loser" to replace Nalbandian, who was returning from hip surgery.
"I am very disappointed not to be able to make my comeback this week at the Heineken Open," he said. "I was very much looking forward into playing in Auckland once again.
"I didn't play much tennis for eight months, so it is natural to suffer some small injuries. Although I am disappointed at the moment, I remain confident and positive about making a fulltime comeback to the tour soon."
Cervantes-Huegin now meets former winner Phillipp Kohlschrieber, seeded fifth this year, in the toughest match-up on Day Two.
Qualifiers Daniel Evans of Great Britain and Michael Lammer of Switzerland will face other in the first match on Court Six, while Lemke has drawn eighth-seeded Spaniard Albert Montanes and Italian Paolo Lorenzi draws Simon Greul of Germany.
