Birmingham tennis fans urged to make a racquet as Davis Cup comes to the city

THE ability of Birmingham to stage major sporting events will be once again put to the test next month when the city stages the first round of Great Britain’s defence of the Davis Cup.

The importance of sport to the city’s wider economy has been seen on several occasions over the last year with Ashes Test Matches at Edgbaston and rugby internationals staged at Villa Park during last year’s World Cup.

Now it is the turn of tennis to claim its place in the spotlight, with the Barclaycard Arena gearing up for what promises to be one of its showpiece events this year as its stages the first round clash between Team GB and Japan.

The games, which take place between March 4 and 6, are the first meeting on a tennis court between the two countries since 1931.

The arrival of the the tournament in the city could provide another boost for the visitor economy with tennis fans from around the country set to attend the event.

With the team line-up yet to be confirmed, the NEC Group said anticipation was building at the venue.  

Phil Mead, managing director of the Barclaycard Arena said:  “With an action-packed three days ahead, it is with great pleasure we welcome Leon Smith and his side to the Barclaycard Arena.

“The venue will once again be the focus of an international sporting event, so our events and sales teams are working closely alongside The International Tennis Federation to deliver an exceptional opening round.”

Great Britain has lifted the Davis Cup trophy on 10 occasions. In 2015 it ended a 79-year wait to secure its first triumph in the competition since 1936, when Fred Perry and Bunny Austin were leading the team.

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