Israel’s chance of remaining in the Davis Cup World Group were given a boost today after being handed a relatively easy draw at home to Austria in September’s relegation playoff.

Dudi Sela (57) and Harel Levy (125) and doubles specialists Andy Ram and Jonathan Erlich will be pitted against Jurgen Melzer (30) Daniel Koellerer (107) and Stefan Koubek (117).

Home advantage on the hard courts of Israel will make this an evenly balanced contest against the Austrians who prefer clay courts.

The tie will start a day early on September 16 to avoid playing on Yom Kippur.