BRUSSELS, September 15, 2017 (TA Press Release)

Queensland’s John Millman will open the first day of play against world No.12 David Goffin in the blockbuster Davis Cup by BNP Paribas semifinal between Australia and Belgium this weekend.

Millman was nominated to replace Thanasi Kokkinakis in the Australian side ahead of the official draw today.

“It’s the greatest honour. When I was informed it was one of the greatest feelings I could have in this sport,” Millman said.

“I’m really looking forward to the challenge and a challenge it’s going to be. It doesn’t come (with) much more intensity than this but I’ve had big matches and I’ve had big experiences before that I’ll draw upon.

“Also, I’m not playing by myself out there. I’ve got a great team behind me that’ll be playing each point with me and I think that’s the beauty of this competition.”​

Captain Lleyton Hewitt said Millman’s late call-up follows his strong form over recent weeks.

“John is match hardened, he’s played a lot of five-set tennis, particularly in New York,” Hewitt said.

“We have full belief in that he can do a job for us.”

World No.20 Nick Kyrgios will take on Steve Darcis in the second singles match on day one.

On Saturday John Peers and Jordan Thompson will go up against Ruben Bemelmans and Arthur De Greef in the doubles rubber.

The tie concludes with the reverse singles on Sunday, when Kyrgios is scheduled to meet Goffin, followed by Millman up against Darcis.

A win over Belgium would see Australia host the Davis Cup final at home in late November against the winner of France and Serbia.

Order of play 

Palais 12, Brussels, Belgium

Indoor clay

Friday 15 September

2.00 pm local time / 10.00 pm AEST – John Millman (AUS) vs David Goffin (BEL)

Followed by Nick Kyrgios (AUS) vs Steve Darcis (BEL)

Saturday 16 September

3.00 pm local time / 11.00 pm AEST – John Peers / Jordan Thompson (AUS)vs Ruben Bemelmans / Arthur De Greef (BEL)

Sunday 17 September

2.00 pm local time / 10.00 pm AEST – Nick Kyrgios (AUS) vs David Goffin (BEL)

Followed by John Millman (AUS) vs Steve Darcis (BEL)