A runner-up at the WTA Finals in Texas two years ago, Sabalenka is eyeing a maiden trophy at the prestigious season finale, which would also guarantee her the year-end number one ranking.
Manu Bhaker revealed that PM Modi had backed her to succeed when when she was 16 years old.
India have been clubbed in Pool A alongside Chinese Taipei, Japan, Korea and Thailand.
The ninth seeded Sarita, who won a team silver medal at the Asian Para Games last year, dropped just one point to take a four-point lead in the first end.
Sakshi had stated in her book that people close to Phogat and Bajrang Punia had started polluting their minds, but Vinesh said that she did not agree with Sakshi's claims