OSAKA: India’s Sania Mirza sent out a strong

signal of intent when she eliminated fifth seed Shahar Peer of Israel in the first round of the Japan Open today.

The 22-year-old Mirza, who won her first Grand Slam title at the Australian Open mixed doubles with Mahesh Bhupathi this season, complete a 3-6, 6-3, 6-4 win over her frequent doubles partner. In the second round, Mirza will take on Viktoriya Kutuzova of Ukraine, the winner over Russian Maria Kirilenko who retired after losing the first set 6-2.