No surprises in Judy Murray’s opening Fed Cup selection

JUDY Murray did not spring any surprises in her first Fed Cup team selection for the Europe/Africa Zone Group I fixtures in Israel next month.

Experienced pair Elena Baltacha and Anne Keothavong and youngsters Heather Watson and Laura Robson will make up the quartet, with fellow teenager Tara Moore also travelling to Eilat as reserve.

Murray, who was appointed Fed Cup captain last month, said: “Our team is an exciting mix of youth and experience. In Elena and Anne we’re lucky to have two established Tour players who are great competitors and so passionate about representing their country.

“With Heather, Laura and Tara, we have three young and very promising players who will bring a lot of energy to the team and will be looking to make their marks in this event.

“Our goal is to progress through the group and, while we know this will be tough, if we play to our potential, it is achievable.”

Last year was a successful one for the top British female players. Baltacha finished the year inside the world’s top 50 and Keothavong triumphed in her final two tournaments of the year at Ismaning and at the AEGON GB Pro-Series Barnstaple.

Watson broke into the world’s top 100 for the first time whilst Laura Robson hit a career high of No 131.

Their group takes the form of round-robin matches, with the 15 nations split into pools and the winners of those playing off for the two spots available in the World Group II play-offs in April.

Baltacha, who won her opening match of the season at the WTA Tour event in Auckland yesterday, said: “I’ve always loved playing Fed Cup and it’s always an honour to play for your country.

“Now that we’re opening a new chapter with Judy coming on board, I’m even more excited to be part of the team. I’m sure we all are.”

Keothavong said: “It’s always an honour to represent your country and Fed Cup is one of the highlights of the year for me. It will be my tenth Fed Cup in Israel and, as a team, we’re stronger than ever. I’m really looking forward to the competition and I hope it’ll be a successful few days for us.”

Watson added: “I had such a great time playing with the girls last year. It’s not very often that we get to play as part of a team so, when we get the chance to really support each other, it’s very special and something I’m very excited to be part of again.”