United Cup tennis 2022-23: Great Britain see off Australia in opener but left to rue closing defeats

Great Britain wrapped up a 3-2 victory over Australia in the United Cup on Friday, although they were left to rue losing two tight closing rubbers that could prove pivotal to their chances of progressing.

The winners of Group D will progress to the City Final in Sydney, with Britain facing Spain – who boast the legendary Rafael Nadal in their line-up – in their final group tie on Saturday and Sunday.

Victory against Spain will guarantee them a spot in the next round, but defeat would leave them sweating on the result between their fellow Europeans and Australia at the start of January.

Britain arrived into Friday’s second session against Australia boasting a 2-0 advantage and got the point they needed to win the tie when Harriet Dart saw off Maddison Inglis 6-4 6-4.

But Australia, who can still progress, hit back and belatedly got on the board as Jason Kubler edged a topsy-turvy match with Dan Evans in straight sets. Kubler trailed 5-0 in the second set but rallied to force a tie-break before coming through 6-3 7-6(3).

And the hosts carried their momentum into the doubles, with Sam Stosur and John Peers downing Dart and Jonny O’Mara 7-6(4) 6-4.

The winners of the three City Finals in Brisbane, Perth and Sydney, plus the best runners-up, will travel to Sydney for the semi-finals.

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