Tennis: Bates resigns as British Davis Cup captain

Jeremy Bates today resigned as captain of Britain's Davis Cup team, following their defeat by Israel at the weekend.

Britain lost the Europe/Africa zone tie 3-2 in Eastbourne and will now face a relegation playoff against Ukraine in September.

"I have enjoyed my time as Davis Cup captain and it has been a privilege both to do the job and to work with the players," said Bates in a statement issued by the British Lawn Tennis Association.

"I would like to thank all the players who have been in the team for the tremendous work that they put in."

Bates, who had been in charge of the team since January 2004, will remain in his role as head of performance, the LTA said.

British hopes rested with their number one player Andy Murray against Israel but the 19-year-old Scot, ranked 36 in the world, had to pull out of Sunday's decisive singles after injuring himself in the doubles on Saturday.

Britain last won the Davis Cup in 1936.

- REUTERS