Following the disappointment of going down to top-seeded Russia for a spot in the semis, the question was always going to be how the Optus Australian Junior Davis Cup team would manage its disappointment and come back to compete in the play-offs.

Overnight they dispelled any doubts with a 2-1 win over the tough Hungarian team. Maverick Banes came out swinging, defeating Hungary’s Marton Fucsovics 6-4 6-4. James Duckworth had the unenviable task against Mate Zsiga, Europe’s No.1 16/u player, but managed to push him to three sets before going down 6-1 4-6 6-4.

In the deciding doubles rubber Duckworth put aside his disappointment to team with Jarryd Chaplin and post a thrilling 6-4 6-1 win over Fucsovics and Zsiga.  

“Maverick backed up unbelievably well after yesterday’s losing rubbers,” Optus Australian Junior Davis Cup Captain Peter Tramacchi said. “He came out and put in a great performance – the best I’ve seen him play, so I’m really happy for him.

“James was a little bit flat through his match, and was very disappointed with his loss in the singles. I told him to walk it off and get himself together because I wanted him to show himself that he could get the job done, and I’m very pleased with how he managed it. The boys were amazing in the doubles. Both Jarryd and James really clicked and were so clinical – they did an unbelievable job.

“When you are playing seniors Davis Cup you might lose on the Friday or Saturday and have to come back and put in a performance on the third day, and this event is played under similar circumstances. You have to adjust to that, apply yourself and listen to your coaches. The boys have done all this and their experiences here at Junior Davis Cup this week have given them an even greater understanding of life on the tour for a pro tennis player,” Tramacchi continued.

Tonight the Optus Australian Junior Davis Cup team will play off against Sweden for fifth position.

The championship will be decided tonight when USA meets Argentina (who defeated top seeds Russia overnight) in the Junior Davis Cup final.

Junior Davis Cup by BNP Paribas is an international team event for boys aged 16 and under. The world final between 16 nations is underway in San Luis Potosi, Mexico, and finishes tomorrow, Sunday 28 September.

Countries participating in the final are as follows. Seeded nations: 1. Russia, 2. India, 3. USA, 4. Hungary, 5. Argentina, 6. Sweden, 7. Australia, 8. Great Britain. Unseeded nations: Tunisia, Peru, Japan, Egypt, Chinese Taipei, Latvia, Brazil, Mexico.