Defending champions Czech Republic reach Davis Cup semi-finals

The Czech Republic have reached the semi-finals of the Davis Cup after opening up an unassailable 3:1 lead over Kazakhstan in Astana. The Czech team – without the country’s men’s number one, Tomáš Berdych – won the first two singles rubbers on Friday before losing in Saturday’s doubles to allow the hosts back into the tie. However, Lukáš Rosol calmed Czech nerves by beating Evgeny Korolev 7-6 6-7 7-6 6-2 on Sunday. The Czech Republic are the defending Davis Cup champions after taking the trophy in Prague at the end of last year, while the country also holds the Fed Cup.