Watson and Robson make Fed Cup team

 

Originally published on: 20/12/10 09:28

British teenagers Heather Watson and Laura Robson are set to make their Fed Cup debuts in Europe/Africa Zone Group I next year.

Eighteen-year old-Watson and Robson, 16, have both made impressive strides in the senior game and will join Fed Cup stalwarts Elena Baltacha and Anne Keothavong for the round of matches in Eilat, Israel, which will be played in the week beginning January 31.

“This team has an exciting look about it,” said Fed Cup captain Nigel Sears, “two players who have reached top 50 and two junior Grand Slam champions.

“We know all about the challenges of this really tough Fed Cup group, but I believe this is the right time for Heather and Laura to step up alongside Bally and Anne and try to make this a really successful week for British women’s tennis.”

Britain has made solid progress in the women’s game over the last couple of years, with Baltacha currently ranked 55th in the world while Keothavong is battling her way back towards the top 100 after sustaining a serious knee injury in 2009.

Watson, who claimed the US Open Junior title last year, has climbed to a career-high No.176 in the world, making her the British No.3, while Robson has been preferred to the likes of Katie O’Brien, Naomi Cavaday and Mel South.

“I’m absolutely thrilled to have been selected for Fed Cup,” said Watson. “It’s a dream come true as I’ve grown up watching the competition. I can’t wait to head out to Israel with the girls and give it our all.”

Britain will be aiming to win a place in the World Group II play-offs in April but, with only two spots available and possible opponents including World No.1 Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark, competition is set to be tough.

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