Sunday 31 January 2016 21:45, UK
Australian Open semi-finalist Johanna Konta has been forced to pull out of Great Britain's Fed Cup squad ahead of their Europe/Africa Zone Group I event.
Konta was due to line up in Israel next week alongside Heather Watson, Anna Smith and Jocelyn Rae, but the world number 47 is now out of contention with an intestinal problem.
A statement from Konta on the Lawn Tennis Association website read: "After having consulted with two doctors, my coach, physio and the LTA, unfortunately I will have to withdraw from the upcoming Fed Cup in Israel.
"I have been advised by the doctors that playing there would jeopardise an ongoing intestinal issue that got progressively worse through the Australian Open.
"This comes as a big disappointment to me and I regret not being able to play. I have represented GB every time I have been asked to and fully intend to play again given the opportunity in the future."
Great Britain are paired against Georgia and South Africa in Pool B.
GB captain Judy Murray said of Konta's decision: "While it's obviously very disappointing, we still have a squad of players capable of winning through the Euro/Africa Zone Group I.
"I have a couple of days to fill the fourth spot, and that gives two of our most promising teenagers Katie Swan and Freya Christie the chance to join Heather Watson and our doubles specialists Jocelyn Rae and Anna Smith in the team."
