The Dutch saved four matchpoints in a prolonged seventh game before holding, but that proved to be a temporary reprieve as Vardhan served out the set and the match in an hour and 27 minutes.

'This was one of the best matches I have played on these courts. Lucassen is a strong back-court player and I knew I have to make him chase the ball, else he could be dangerous. I had to play aggressively and I am glad that I was able to do so,' Vardhan, who won the last ITF here in July, said.

'My feet finally moved well today. I faced a few break points in the match, but my serve came to my rescue. I can now see a realistic chance of winning the tournament.

'I am just focussing on improving the quality of my game. I now want to focus more at the Challenger level. My recent outing at the Challengers in Brazil was a great learning experience, even though I did not do well,' he said.