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Davis Cup: Great Britain v France Quarter Final Preview

By Geoff Nichols

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Davis Cup: Great Britain v France Quarter Final Preview

Hot on the heels of another enthralling Wimbledon fortnight is the Davis Cup World Group Quarter Finals. With barely time to take breath for the players that went deep at SW19, a stones throw away at Queens Club is the scene for more high octane tennis

Both France and Great Britain must be eyeing up their respective chances of a run to the Davis Cup Final, given that their semi final opponents will be the winner of Australia against Kazakhstan. France have not won the event since 2001, whilst their British counterparts have endured an 80 year wait.

Now with Andy Murray spearheading the attack, they have allowed themselves to believe that anything is possible. Both countries have strength on the grass, with Queens the location of Murray’s most recent title, whilst Richard Gasquet and Gilles Simon recorded stunning Wimbledon’s from an individual perspective.

Teams

Great BritainFrance
1: Andy Murray (3)1: Gilles Simon (11)
2: James Ward (89)2: Jo-Wilfried Tsonga (202)
3: Jamie Murray (20, doubles)3: Richard Gasquet (13)
4: Dom Inglot (40, doubles)4: Nicolas Mahut (22, doubles)
Captain: Leon SmithCaptain: Arnaud Clement

The talking point to emerge from the French camp is centred around the balance of their four man squad. Pierre-Hugues Herbert was named as a provisional alternate, providing the option of a second doubles specialist. However, the 24 year old who is Nicolas Mahut’s regular partner has been since overlooked.

It is a decision that makes it seem like captain Arnaud Clement is focussing on the singles rubbers. This comes in two forms. First, he will be hoping to avoid any kind of drama whatsoever with the two matches against the hot and cold James Ward, but also he will be plucking for an upset of Murray, possibly using a completely fresh player on the final day.

The Great Britain team picked itself as Alijaz Bedene’s application to be eligible was rejected for now. Andy Murray and James Ward will play two singles ties each as the two remaining spots are occupied by doubles specialists. Jamie Murray’s run at Wimbledon secured his selection alongside his younger brother.

Key Players

Andy Murray (GBR)

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So much depends on Andy Murray, as has seemed to be the case for years in the Davis Cup for Great Britain. We have already questioned his ability to bounce back from a huge disappointment at Wimbledon, but the passion he has when playing for his country should help him refocus.

Don’t be surprised to see Murray play all three ties available to him. If he wants to, he will, end of story. I can see him partnering up with his brother on the vital middle saturday and whilst there may be questions of fatigue, he doesn’t play again until Washington in August.

Gilles Simon (FRA)

Gilles Simon must win his doubles tie against James Ward, although he doesn’t immediately strike you as the man for the big occasion. He must channel out the crowd and stay focussed. He is also the most likely player, on grass, to upset Andy Murray and is in decent form after Wimbledon.

Jamie Murray (GBR)

The doubles tie is almost certainly where the match will be won and lost. For France, Nicolas Mahut is a reliable doubles player and outstanding on grass. Jamie Murray has the pressure weighing on him that he is the experienced head in doubles.

He has reacted the pressure in different ways through his career, sometimes struggling for timing, especially at the start of matches. Whether he pairs with Andy or Dom Inglot, Jamie Murray’s performance will be one of the biggest factors in the destination of a tie that is too close to call.

Be sure to keep an eye on Lob and Smash for the latest Davis Cup action as the quarter final ties get under way this weekend, with predictions, results and opinions over the course of a fascinating three days play.

Next: Wimbledon 2015: Top 5 Upsets in Men's Draw

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