Murray doubles riddle as Great Britain target Davis Cup win over US
INTRIGUE surrounds Great Britain’s Davis Cup tie with the United States, which starts today in Glasgow, after Andy Murray insisted he was likely to take on a reduced role for the weekend.
World No5 Murray had been expected to spearhead Britain’s attempts to repeat last year’s away victory over the Americans by playing in the full complement of singles and doubles matches.
But despite Murray pointedly seeking out doubles practice in preparation, GB captain Leon Smith has nominated the in-form but less decorated Dominic Inglot to partner the Scot’s brother Jamie in the World Group first-round tie.
The caveat is that Smith is able to change his line-up up to an hour before tomorrow’s doubles match, though Murray played down suggestions that the hosts were bluffing their opponents.
“It’s unlikely I will play the doubles on Saturday,” said the Wimbledon winner, who meets world No47 Donald Young in the tie’s first match this afternoon. “If it’s required, it would be nice to play with Jamie or Dom. Both have started this year very, very well.”
Londoner James Ward, whose shock win over Sam Querrey swung last year’s second-round tie irrevocably in Britain’s favour, takes on big-serving John Isner in today’s other singles clash.
Inglot, 28, is 38th in doubles rankings and has already enjoyed victory over America’s world-leading Bryan brothers, Bob and Mike, alongside regular partner Florin Mergea of Romania. The tie finishes with two singles matches on Sunday.