25 March 2014
Lithuania have announced their best possible squad to face South Africa in a crucial Europe/Africa Zone Group 2, round two, Davis Cup tie at the Irene Country Club in Centurion outside Pretoria from 4 to 6 April.
Lithuania’s non-playing captain Rimvydas Mugevicius on Monday named Lithuania’s four best possible players to travel to South Africa, namely Ricardas Berankis (singles 144; doubles 436); Laurynas Grigelis (singles 244; doubles 542); Lukas Mugevicius (singles 973; doubles 969); and Mantas Bugailiskis (singles 1542).
First round results
The same Lithuanian team defeated Norway 5-0 in Norway in round one in February.
South Africa defeated Monaco 3-2 at the Irene Country Club in their first round tie.
‘Lots of respect’
“We have lots of respect for the Lithuanian team,” South African captain John-Laffnie de Jager said in a statement.
“Berankis is a very good player with lots of experience, and with Grigelis they have a solid singles line up. They are both very good Davis Cup players and we look forward to hosting them in South Africa next month.”
First meeting
South Africa and Lithuania will meet for the first time in the history of the competition with the victor progressing to a promotion play-off and the chance to advance to Europe Africa Zone Group I.
South Africa will be trying to bounce straight back after having been relegated last year, while Lithuania have never been higher than Group 2 in the 20 years they have competed in Davis Cup.
The South African squad, which was announced last week, comprises Rik De Voest (singles 190; doubles 385); Dean O’Brien (singles 517; doubles 455); Ruan Roelofse (singles 749; doubles 271); Jean Andersen (singles 861; doubles 1292); and Raven Klaasen (doubles 30 )
Tickets
Tickets for the tie are on sale at R40 each, with all tickets for unreserved seating. Secure parking at the Irene Country Club will cost R20.
Tickets may be purchased in advance from Annette Terry at the Tennis South Africa (TSA) offices between 08:30 and 13:00 daily on (011) 442 0500 or by emailing requests to juniors@tennissa.co.za.
Deposits for ticket purchases need to be made into the TSA banking account.
Tickets can be collected at the TSA offices at The Wanderers Cricket Stadium, while special arrangements for ticket collections at the Gauteng North Tennis Association offices in Groenkloof, Pretoria, can also be made.
SAinfo reporter
