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Great Britain miss out on Fed Cup World Group spot after doubles defeat to Japan

Great Britain miss out on Fed Cup promotion
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Great Britain's wait to play in the Fed Cup World Group will continue after suffering a 3-2 defeat to Japan in their promotion playoff.

Great Britain have missed out on promotion to the Fed Cup World Group as Johanna Konta and Heather Watson suffered a decisive doubles defeat to Japan on Sunday.

The top two British singles players lost 3-6 6-3 6-3 to Miya Kato and Makoto Ninomiya in the final rubber, meaning a fourth promotion playoff defeat in seven years.

Konta and Watson recovered from being broken in the latter's opening service game to secure the first set 6-3 but lost the second by the same scoreline despite a brief rally after falling 5-0 behind.

After Konta saved three break points in the fifth game of the third set, Japan took the initiative with a break at the next available opportunity and saw out the tie for victory.

Earlier, Watson lost 7-6(7) 6-4 to Kurumi Nara after Konta beat Indian Wells champion Naomi Osaka 6-3 6-3.

Britain, who have not competed in the World Group since 1993, will take part again in Europe/Africa Group I next year.

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