Andy Murray to lead Great Britain in Davis Cup clash with Japan
Tuesday 23 February 2016 15:19, UK
Andy Murray will lead Great Britain next week as the team begin the defence of their Davis Cup title with an opening round match against Japan.
Murray has not played since losing the Australian Open final to Novak Djokovic at the end of January, in order to spend time with his newly-born daughter Sophia Olivia, and wife Kim Sears.
The 28-year-old has been named in an initial five-man group ahead of the first round clash against Japan, which begins on Friday, March 4 at Birmingham's Barclaycard Arena.
Great Britain captain Leon Smith has also named Murray's brother Jamie, Kyle Edmund, Dan Evans and doubles specialist Dom Inglot in the team but will have to trim his selection down to four for the tie.
"I'm delighted to name the five players for this first round match," Smith told the official Lawn Tennis Association website.
"Japan have a very strong team, progressed well in recent years and with Kei Nishikori have an established top-10 player.
"It will be a test for us but I'm confident in our team and I'm sure when the guys pull on their GB shirt they will give their all.
"We are lucky to have another home tie and it's exciting to be returning to Birmingham. Our fans give us incredible support and we look forward to more of the same."
