South Africa’s Davis Cup team welcomes back Henning and Van Wyk for Montenegro home tie

The Renault South Africa Davis Cup team will enjoy a boost ahead of its match against Montenegro next month, with the promising return of seasoned players Philip Henning and Kris van Wyk.

Both players had to sit out the previous match against Morocco (in September) owing to injuries. Still, they have now been included in a six-member squad set to compete at the Irene Country Club, starting on 7 February.

As the most experienced member of the team, the 25-year-old Henning will take the helm, bringing with him a wealth of experience from previous international ties. Since 2018, Henning has participated in 11 Davis Cup ties, securing 13 victories from 19 matches.

Alongside him, 29-year-old Van Wyk adds depth and tactical prowess, crucial for a tie that could determine South Africa’s position in the World Group II playoff.

The squad also includes two 24-year-olds, Alec Beckley and Thando Longwe-Smit, along with the seasoned 31-year-old Marc van der Merwe, all of whom have retained their places following a challenging 4-1 defeat against Morocco.

Notably, 18-year-old Simphiwe Ngwenya joins the team as a hitting partner, poised to gain invaluable experience after clinching the Under-18 boys’ title at the TSA Junior Masters in Cape Town last year.

Captain Pietie Norval expressed optimism ahead of the tie.

“It’s great to have most of South Africa’s players available for selection for this tie, and we are looking forward to hosting Montenegro at Irene Country Club. We’ll be playing on hardcourt at altitude, which we believe gives us a solid chance.

“Now we have a healthy bunch of players, and we are very excited to take on Montenegro.”

The South African squad is under pressure to perform after a disappointing 4-1 loss in their last tie against Morocco. They must secure a victory over Montenegro to retain their spot in World Group II.

Montenegro arrives for the playoff with commendable momentum, having triumphed in four out of five ties during the Group III Europe tournament held in North Macedonia in June, earning their own passage into the World Group II playoffs.

With a mix of youthful talent and seasoned skills, South Africa will be well prepared to battle for survival in a tie that could define their international standing in tennis.