Rubber 1: Daniel Evans (GBR) WR 222 defeated Denis Istomin (UZB) WR 60 by 7-6(4) 4-6 0-6 6-4 7-5
Rubber 2: Jurabek Karimov (UZB) WR 434 defeated Cameron Norrie (GBR) WR 70 by 0-6 5-7 7-6(6) 6-2 6-2
Cam, oh Cam! You had your chances. Still on the DC learning curve, I guess. But still all to play for. If we don't win the doubles tomorrow, though, I'll fear the worst...
Apparently the wild cards for 2019 Finals event will be selected before the draw for the qualifying event in February - as that draw is in 2 weeks time, or less, then the wildcards should be announced in the next week or so
Switzerland are apparently favourites to get a wild card. France, Spain, Croatia and USA already in. Who else? Assuming france or Spain are hosts, then it will be neutral. I imagine given money is driving this then it would be a country with a top player, given their recent record Serbia are the next most likely? Cant see GB getting one despite being recent champs. If Andy was higher up the ranks then maybe , with him and Kyle if both were top 20. But not based on current form or rankings
One thing to consider is that ITF put a lot of focus on their world rankings. So choosing two wild cards that are high in those might make sense:
the current list is
1. France
2. Argentina
3. belgium
4.Croatia
5. GB
6. USA
7. Spain
8. Australia
9. Switzerland
10. Serbia
So Argentina and Belgium may have view that they should receive wild cards with GB only other member of top7 not qualified already for 2019 finals.
Of course list above is pre this weekend so points may change slightly as weekend closes
This wild card nonsense purely designed to levy profit by fitting big nation or big player to draw press coverage, revenue, fan and sponsor is really getting on my paps.. If a nation didn't qualify on merit what business should they have at a supposed world cup finals.
Very well played GB dubs team today. Dom much improved after last time out for GB. Grew through early sets. Superb lobs and serving by both. Both awesome at the net. Istomin now going on for 8hours on court already in a little over a day and first up tomorrow.. I'm guessing Cam will get the nod to redeem himself and deliver.