New Zealand Davis Cup captain Artem Sitak said the team were preparing thoroughly for the challenge.<\/p>\n
\u201cBosnia & Herzegovina have a strong team, so we expect a high standard of tennis across both days. <\/p>\n
\u201cOur players understand what is required at this level and we will approach the tie with lots of good preparation and a clear focus on the task,\u201d Sitak said.<\/p>\n
Tennis NZ chief executive Julie Paterson said hosting a World Group I tie in Whang\u0101rei reflected the continued commitment to growing the sport in the regions.<\/p>\n
\u201cBringing Davis Cup tennis to Whang\u0101rei is an important opportunity to showcase the sport at an elite level. <\/p>\n
\u201cThe Northland community is passionate about the game at both grassroots and professional level, so we\u2019re pleased to see this tie staged in Northland,\u201d Paterson said.<\/p>\n
The fixture is a big moment for Whang\u0101rei District Council, which sees the value the event brings to the community. <\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019re thrilled to welcome world-class tennis to Whang\u0101rei,\u201d council community services group general manager Victoria Harwood said. <\/p>\n
\u201cThis event is an incredible opportunity to showcase Whang\u0101rei as an international host city, attract visitors and inspire our young sportspeople. <\/p>\n
\u201cOur community can also look forward to activities that connect and engage locals, including school visits and a ball-kid programme.<\/p>\n
\u201cMcKay Stadium will be transformed into a premier international tennis venue for the occasion, featuring tiered seating and a portable indoor court, with matches streamed to audiences around the world.\u201d<\/p>\n
Tennis Northland general manager Brittany White echoed these sentiments.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019re excited to bring the Davis Cup to Whang\u0101rei. It\u2019s a huge opportunity for tennis in Northland, inspiring more people to get involved and helping grow the sport across the region,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
In addition to Tennis Northland, Sport Northland is providing significant support for the event through its management of McKay Stadium. <\/p>\n
Bringing Davis Cup tennis to Whang\u0101rei for the first time aligns well with objectives around connected partnerships with sporting codes and diversified use of venues.<\/p>\n
The New Zealand team will be named closer to the event and will feature players competing across the ATP Tour, the World Tennis Tour and US collegiate programmes.<\/p>\n
The two-day format will feature two singles rubbers on day one, followed by doubles and reverse singles on day two.<\/p>\n