Andy Murray to miss Davis Cup match with Slovakia

Murray's defeat by Djokovic was a five-set epic

British number one Andy Murray will miss next month's Davis Cup match against Slovakia because of injury concerns following the Australian Open.

James Ward, Dan Evans, Colin Fleming and Ross Hutchins make up the team.

"I'm gutted to miss out on the Davis Cup having really enjoyed playing last year," said Murray.

"But, as it's only the start of an important season, which includes the Olympics in London, it's probably a sensible decision."

Murray reached the semi-finals in Melbourne before losing a five-set thriller to eventual champion Novak Djokovic.

He added: "I've been told to take a few weeks off after picking up a few minor injuries in Australia.

"My focus in 2012 is on performing well in the Grand Slams and the Olympics. I look forward to playing in the next Davis Cup tie later in the year."

The Slovakia tie, at Glasgow's Braehead Arena on 10-12 February, is Great Britain's first in Euro/Africa Zone Group I since they beat Hungary last September to earn promotion from Group II.

GB captain Leon Smith said: "This is a real step-up in standard for the team, and we go into the tie knowing the Slovak Republic will be favourites.

"But I am confident the boys will see this as a great chance to put everything into representing their country, and that with the backing of a fantastic set of home fans, we can upset the odds."