Russian pair look likely to challenge for honours

WTA Limoges Open
A French woman has reached the final in all three stagings of the WTA Limoges Open and Alize Cornet is the favourite to land the WTA 125k series prize in her home country.

But Cornet’s emotions can often get the better of her, even in low-level events, and there looks to be value elsewhere in the draw given she faces a tough opener against Danka Kovinic.

Reigning champion Ekaterina Alexandrova is back to defend her crown – she thrashed Caroline Garcia in the final – and she looks overpriced to produce a repeat performance in an open field.

The Russian has not played much in recent weeks but that was the case last year and a return to France could encourage a player who also won an indoor ITF title at Croissy-Beauborg in March.

WTA Hua Hin Championship
Qiang Wang and Belinda Bencic top the betting for the WTA Hua Hin Championship in Thailand despite being on course to meet in the second round and it appears that the odds suggest that the Chinese player would have the edge should they meet.

Bencic is the better player at peak fitness but the Swiss is still working her way back from a wrist operation and might struggle to deal with the heat and humidity in south Asia.

Take a chance on Vera Zvonareva, who is housed in the weak-looking lower half of the draw. The Russian is back on the circuit after two years away and is capable of challenging based on her recent efforts.

Recommendations
E Alexandrova to win WTA Limoges
1pt each-way 16-1 bet365, Sky Bet
V Zvonareva to win WTA Hua Hin
1pt each-way 16-1 bet365

Tournament lowdown

WTA Limoges Open

Venue Palais des Sports de Beaublanc, Limoges, France

Prize money €115,000 (€16,129 to winner)

Category 125K Series (160 ranking points to winner)

Surface Indoor Greenset hard courts

When to bet Starts 9am Monday

Time difference Limoges is one hour ahead of the UK and Ireland

WTA EA Hua Hin Championship

Venue True Arena, Hua Hin, Thailand

Prize money €115,000 (€20,000 to winner)

Category 125K Series (160 ranking points to winner)

Surface Outdoor, Plexichushion hard courts

When to bet Starts 8am Monday

Weather forecast Showers expected throughout the week. High 31C

Time difference Hua Hin is seven hours ahead of the UK and Ireland

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