Davis Cup 2016: James Ward must again serve up unlikely Davis Cup dream

Ward has shone in the Cup, showing his mental and physical toughness to beat Dmitry Tursunov as Russia were edged out 3-2 in 2013 and knocking over Sam Querrey then John Isner in successive ties against the United States. The Isner win last year was his best with the 29‑year-old edging the fifth set 15‑13.

Now, Ward, who lost in straight sets to Djokovic in the first round at Wimbledon, has to draw on those wins as he looks to relaunch his career.

This is the first meeting between Ward and Lajovic, who has won four and lost four of his previous Davis Cup rubbers. Ward is far more experienced and has a 10-9 win‑loss record from his 11 ties.

“I’m happy to be here. I love playing for my country, I always have,” said Ward. “It’s generally brought the best out of me so, hopefully, it happens again this weekend.”

By Djokovic and Murray, the top two players in men’s tennis, opting out of this quarter-final it has highlighted the weakness of the Cup structure.

Putting key rounds immediately after Grand Slam tournaments — the semi-final will be in the week after the US Open in September — puts pressure on the leading players’ carefully scheduled programmes.

Murray found space to lead Britain to Cup glory last year and wants to help defend the title but his efforts at Wimbledon plus a switch from grass to clay made this a tie too far.

Britain’s captain Leon Smith was heavily involved in getting Murray to play last year and the world No2 is in Serbia to support the team even though he will not play. Smith said: “It’s a big commitment for all these guys to be here, to have to switch surface yet again. I think it’s a real shame the best players aren’t playing again.

“Andy loves Davis Cup and all his team-mates and support staff. All of us are really pumped he is here to support the team.”

Victory would earn Britain a home semi-final against either Italy or Argentina, most likely indoors in Glasgow in September.