Bjorkman to open against Israel's Sela in Davis Cup

By Ori Lewis

HERZLIYA, Israel (Reuters) - Swedish doubles specialist Jonas Bjorkman has been handed singles duty for this weekend's Davis Cup first round tie against Israel.

Bjorkman will take on Dudi Sela in the opening rubber of the three-day tie on Friday.

With Israel back in the World Group following a 13-year-absence, Sela will be keen to make home advantage count and give the hosts a winning start against the seven-times champions.

"It was a dream for us to get to the World Group ... playing in Israel has an influence, our guys always rise to the occasion, especially when they play for the flag, I think we have a good chance," Israeli captain Eyal Ran said.

Israeli number two Harel Levy, back in the team after suffering a serious groin injury, will face Swedish number one Thomas Johansson in the second singles rubber.

Australian Open doubles champions Andy Ram and Jonathan Erlich are set to meet Swedish paring Simon Aspelin and Robert Linstedt in the doubles on Saturday.

Swedish captain Mats Wilander nominated Linstedt instead Filip Prpic, his original fourth player, as the 30-year-old is a doubles specialist.