Ran to stay on after Israel avoid relegation from Davis Cup group
TENNIS EYAL Ran has been persuaded to make a dramatic U-turn on his decision to step down as Davis Cup captain of Israel following the team’s impressive victory over Sweden.
Ran, who has been in charge for 11 years, had been expected to depart after the Europe/Africa play-off, but a 3-1 success was enough to convince him to continue in the role.
The result was never in doubt after Amir Weintraub (223) thrilled the 5,000 crowd at Ramat Hasharon with a very comfortable 6-2, 6-3, 6-0 victory over Elias Ymer (161).
Dudi Sela (94) was far too strong for Markus Eriksson, winning 6-4, 6-2, 6-3, and Sela later teamed up with Jonathan Erlich to beat Isak Arvidsson and Yohan Brondstrom 6-4, 7-6, 4-6, 6-2 to take an unassailable 3-0 lead and ensure survival in Group One.
Sela said: “Amir took a lot of pressure off all of us by winning his match so easily. I came to the match very tired and although we were favourites, the Swedes are always tough and competitive but the crowd at Ramat Hasharon really lifted us.”
With the tie won, Israel experimented with its youngsters and 19-year-old Edan Leshem went down to Arvidsson.
Israel then handed a chance to 16-year-old prodigy Yshai Oliel (912) in what the Swedes agreed would be a friendly match because Oliel was not officially listed in Israel’s squad. Oliel seized the opportunity and beat Eriksson (456) 6-4, 6-4.
Oliel said: “I know this victory didn’t count but it was an amazing feeling to represent my country and gives me great incentive to work harder and become part of the Davis Cup team.”