Smith and Rae, who reached the third round of the women’s doubles at last month’s Australian Open, turned around an early 2-0 deficit to beat Madrie Le Roux and Michelle Sammons 6-3 6-2.

That came on the back of singles victories for Heather Watson and Bristol teenager Katie Swan, giving the Aegon GB team a convincing start to their Europe/Africa Zone Group I campaign in Israel.

Smith – who is coached by Dave Sammel, Ian McDonald and Bob Smith at the University of Bath Sports Training Village – said: “We as a doubles pair feel confident about beating anyone but we also know our singles players cam beat anyone so the confidence in each other works both ways.”

Captain Judy Murray added: “Joss and Anna are playing very confidently and looked very sharp in their win which will give them confidence going into tomorrow. We are very happy with the 3-0 win.”

Next up for GB is a match against Georgia, who also beat South Africa 3-0 in their opening tie. The winners will go on to play for promotion against the top team in Group D on Saturday.

Report courtesy of Team Bath Press Office at Matchtight