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Erlich ready for Davis Cup test

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Jonathan Erlich believes his epic run at Wimbledon will stand him in good stead for Israel’s forthcoming Davis Cup clash against Slovenia.

Erlich and partner Philipp Petzschner set the men’s doubles competition alight with some scintillating tennis after coming through the qualifiers, playing in their first tournament together.

The duo lost just three sets on their way to the semi-final against local favourite Jamie Murray and Frederik Nielsen, the 13th seeds.

Erlich and Petzschner came through a thrilling last eight clash against second seeds Ivan Dodig and Marcelo Melo, coming from behind to win in four sets on Court 18.

"We were in control of the quarter- final from the very start and they stole the first set,” said Erlich. “We felt from early in the match that we were better and calmer, so we just wanted to keep playing as we were and look to break their serve. Once we did that, things began to flow our way.”

The pair only decided to link up at the Grand Slam six weeks ago, but Erlich, 38, insists the partnership is going from strength to strength.

"From the first moment there was a good connection and we have great chemistry,” he said. “We both reassure each other and I’m very glad about that."

Erlich last played in a Wimbledon semi-final in 2003 with compatriot Andy Ram who has since retired from the sport and he insists he is still capable of delivering on the big stage.

"I was still starting out then and everything was new and fresh, and I wanted to conquer the world.

"Now I’ve been on the circuit for many years and although I’m less enthusiastic I’m still hungry. I was always very balanced but now I’m much more mature.”

Erlich told the JC last week that retirement is imminent owing to family commitments — he is married and has two children — but he is looking to bow out on a high. He has been selected for Israel’s Group 1 Europe/Africa relegation playoff in Tel Aviv next week.

He said: “I always take stock at the end of the year and anything can happen. But I hope I’ll be healthy and strong and can carry on playing at the level I am now.”

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