Emma Raducanu got Great Britain off to the brightest of starts on Friday, sailing past Germany’s Jule Niemeier with a 6-4 6-4 win.

The 22-year-old was playing her first match in almost two months because of a foot injury, but produced an encouraging display in the 12-nation women’s team event on her latest comeback.

“I think this event is a great way to come back, even though there is some pressure to score a point for your team. You’re not just playing for yourself, you’re playing for everyone,” Raducanu said afterwards.

Then came Katie Boulter, with the British number one ensuring GB progressed without needing Olivia Nicholls and Heather Watson to play in a deciding doubles match.

Boulter, who is fresh from breaking into the world’s top 25, needed 70 minutes to beat Laura Siegemund 6-1 6-2.