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Murray sidesteps Davis Cup tie
ESPN staff
January 31, 2012
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Andy Murray put in a supreme effort at the Australian Open
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A "stiff and sore" Andy Murray will miss Great Britain's Davis Cup clash with Slovakia on the weekend of February 10.
GB face the Slovaks in Glasgow and it was hoped that Murray would take in the clash, having led the team to promotion with victory over Hungary last November.
However, the British No. 1 picked up a few niggles during his run to the semi-finals of the Australian Open and he will take a break before heading to Florida to train with his new coach Ivan Lendl.
Murray said: "I'm gutted to miss out on the Davis Cup having really enjoyed playing last year, but as it's only the start of an important season, which includes the Olympics in London, it's probably a sensible decision."
Speaking after his defeat to eventual winner Novak Djokovic in the semi-finals of the Australian Open, Murray said: "My body's sore. I had a few problems during the tournament, niggles and things. I had a problem with my back so we need to fix it.
"It will be good to take a break given the long year ahead with the other grand slams and the Olympics."
GB captain Leon Smith announced his team on Tuesday and James Ward will lead the singles challenge, aided by Dan Evans. The established doubles pairing of Colin Fleming and Ross Hutchins complete the four-man team.
Smith said: "This is a real step up in standard for the team and we go into the tie knowing the Slovak Republic will be favourites.
"But I am confident the boys will see this as a great chance to put everything into representing their country, and that with the backing of a fantastic set of home fans, we can upset the odds."
© ESPN EMEA Ltd
