Thanasi takes Groth’s spot

HE’S only won six singles matches for the year but recalled Thanasi Kokkinakis is a big factor in Australia’s Davis Cup semi-final campaign next week in Belgium.

Kokkinakis yesterday displaced Sam Groth in the four-man team who beat the US in April in Brisbane.

The South Australian could be named for doubles against the Belgians alongside doubles specialist John Peers and is valuable back-up with singles star Nick Kyrgios (shoulder, hip) under a fitness cloud.