Murray now ready for 'full time' Davis Cup role to help Britain challenge top-flight nations

Wimbledon Champion Andy Murray has said that he is ready to take on a full time role for Great Britain in the Davis Cup after sealing their spot in the elite World Group with a straight-sets win over Croatia's Ivan Dodig.

According to The Scotsman, Murray was playing in his first Davis Cup match in two years and underlined his importance as Britain overcame Croatia 4-1 in their play-off encounter on the clay of the Stadion Stella Maris in Umag.

Despite nursing a back injury, the Scot clinched the all-important third point his team needed to ensure their berth in the elite World Group for the first time in five years when he eased to a 6-4, 6-2, 6-4 victory over world No 35 Dodig, the report said.

Tougher tests await but the Wimbledon champion has plenty of confidence in the team, captained by Leon Smith, and wants to play his part, fitness permitting, the report added.

Murray said that he felt Britain was ready to do well in the tournament, as they also had a top doubles team, adding that Dan Evans and James Ward would continue to improve.

The Scot said that if he were fit and healthy, he would be there to play for the country.

Britain held the advantage going into yesterday's reverse singles after Murray and Colin Fleming won in the doubles 24 hours earlier against Dodig and Mate Pavic, the report further said.