Watson loses in three

HEATHER WATSON has been knocked out of the ASB Classic in Auckland.

She lost her second round match to world No. 63 Kiki Bertens of the Netherlands today 6-4, 3-6, 6-3.

Watson had progressed through the first round when opponent Sorana Cirstea retired after losing the first set 6-3. In winning that match, the British No. 1 became the last British tennis player to win in 2012 and the first in 2013, such is the time difference between the UK and Auckland.