With Poland lacking their high two singles gamers – Hubert Hurkacz and Kamil Majchrzak – Fery’s opponent Pieczkowski is their highest-ranked participant.
That meant Britain had been heavy favourites coming into the tie, which was in comparison with a Premier League group going through a non-league aspect within the FA Cup.
However captain Leon Smith warned that it was not essentially that easy. And so it proved as Norrie made exhausting work of his match in opposition to 19-year-old Berkieta, ranked 511 locations under him.
Norrie was instantly on the again foot, saving two break factors in his opening service recreation.
A tough set adopted with neither participant conjuring additional break level alternatives and the Pole forcing a tie-break.
Norrie saved two set factors earlier than lacking three of his personal in an error-strewn tie-break however a double fault from Berkieta then Norrie’s pinpoint serve from sealed the 30-year-old the opener.
Norrie then confirmed his expertise in set two as Berkieta’s perception and stage trailed off and an early break of serve was sufficient for Norrie to safe victory and Britain’s first level of the tie.
A torn bicep and sickness had prevented former top-10 participant Norrie enjoying Davis Cup for the reason that 2023 quarter-final with Serbia.
He has already performed 22 tournaments this yr however mentioned enjoying for his nation is “one in every of my favorite weeks” of the yr.
Britain misplaced 3-2 in Japan within the first spherical of this yr’s Davis Cup, and so should win this tie to keep up their standing among the many elite. Defeat would imply a February play-off, which may lead to relegation to World Group 2.
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