GB to bid for Fed Cup play-off spot

As had been the case in yesterday's match against South Africa, the 16-year-old had been tasked with opening the tie in the first of the singles matches.

And she once again rose to the occasion, upsetting world number 327 Ekaterine Gorgodze – a player ranked 197 places higher than her – to win 6-3 6-3.

British number two Heather Watson then took to the court knowing victory over Sofia Shapatava would put Great Britain into an unassailable 2-0 lead regardless of the outcome of the women’s doubles.

A 6-2, 6-0 win duly followed and while Jocelyn Rae and Anna Smith were unable to overcome Shapatava and Oksana Kalashnikova, going down 6-2 6-4, it was not enough to prevent Great Britain topping Pool B in Europe/Africa Group 1.

Victory on Saturday will ensure a World Group II play-off match in April for the first time since 2013 with the possibility of a potential home tie for the first time since 1993.

Captain Judy Murray said: "Katie got us off to a really good start. Heather then followed this up with a very impressive performance. She was livelier than yesterday, really moving well and showing how well she can play.

"In the doubles Joss Rae has a bit of a back injury which is a bit of a worry for tomorrow but we went through 2-1.

"There is a lot at stake tomorrow as they have a strong team, stronger than us on paper, but the rankings go out the window when you play for your country. Fingers crossed!"