• Tennis news

Smith set to be named new Davis Cup captain

ESPN staff
April 9, 2010
Leon Smith will take over with GB one defeat away from the lowest tier of the Davis Cup © Getty Images
Enlarge

Andy Murray appears to have got his wish, after it emerged that his former coach Leon Smith is expected to be announced as Britain's Davis Cup captain next week.

Smith, who oversaw Murray from 1999 to 2004, appears to have been given the role by the Lawn Tennis Association, leapfrogging Greg Rusedski in the process.

The 34-year-old has effectively been the head of player development for the last two years at the LTA and, while he has played junior county tennis for the West of Scotland, he has never competed in the Davis Cup.

British tennis is currently under intense scrutiny following the recent home loss to Lithuania. Murray, the world No. 4, missed the unexpected defeat and is unlikely to play in the upcoming relegation play-off with Turkey unless Smith can persuade him otherwise.

Murray was heavily criticised for his lack of commitment to the Davis Cup by former captain John Lloyd when he resigned from the post last month.

It is understood that Smith will be installed in time for him to take charge against Turkey in July. Should Britain lose, they will find themselves demoted to Group Three of the Europe-Africa Zone - the lowest division of the competition.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
Close

ABOUT COOKIES

To help make this website better, to improve and personalize your experience and for advertising purposes, are you happy to accept cookies and other technologies.

More Info Here Cookie Choices