BRISBANE, Australia, March 8, 2019 (BSS/AFP) – Australia will play its Fed
Cup semi-final against Belarus on the hardcourts of Brisbane in the first
meeting between the two countries.
The Ashleigh Barty-led Australians booked their place in the last four with
a 3-2 win over the United States away in February, while Belarus thrashed
Germany 4-0.
The April 20-21 clash between the two nations will take place at the Pat
Rafter Arena, the venue for the annual Brisbane International.
There had been some speculation that the tie could be played on clay ahead
of the European clay season, but hardcourts have instead been picked.
“The whole team, led by Ash (Barty) worked hard for the win over the USA
and I can honestly say that winning the tie was one of the highlights of my
career,” said Australia skipper Alicia Molik late Thursday.
“Belarus has a group of incredibly strong players and we expect them to be
tough. But we also know we’ll have terrific support from the fans and look
forward to a great turnout in Brisbane.”
Belarus is spearheaded by world No.9 Aryna Sabalenka, two-time Australian
Open champion Victoria Azarenka and 2018 Brisbane finalist Aliaksandra
Sasnovich.
They have reached the semis for the last three years, with their best
result making the final in 2017.
Australia is looking to earn a place in the final for the first time since
1993.
The other semi-final is between France and Romania.