Huge test for Stosur up against Sabalenka

SO GOOD for so long away from home, Samantha Stosur has been offered a chance to star in Australia after receiving a surprise Fed Cup semi-final singles call-up.

The former world No.4 has won a US Open and made three semis and a final at the French Open but has never gone beyond the fourth round in her home grand slam.

Success at the Brisbane International has also escaped her but, at 35, the Gold Coast talent has another opportunity to make some happy memories on Brisbane’s Pat Rafter Arena today. Stosur was picked ahead of Daria Gavrilova and Priscilla Hon and will play world No.10 Aryna Sabalenka in Australia’s opening rubber against Belarus.

Australian spearhead and world No.9 Ashleigh Barty has drawn doubles partner and two-time Australian Open winner Victoria Azarenka in a fascinating first day of action.

The Queensland duo are also set to play doubles together for the first time in what could be a deciding fifth rubber tomorrow. If Australia wins it will host the final in November against Romania or France and chase its first Fed Cup title since Evonne Goolagong Cawley starred in 1974.

The Belarusian camp admitted surprise when Stosur’s name was called at yesterday’s draw announcement, but Australian captain Alicia Molik said it made sense.

“It’s a player Sam’s really familiar with and that’s really important in tie like this, one where no doubt experience has to count as well,” Molik said.

“It’d be incredible if I saw her on the weekend get the best out of herself. She’s achieved so much and more than most in her career.”