Australia Scrapes Past Ukraine To Advance To Fed Cup World Group Play-offs

With Ukraine’s Elena Svitolina not showing for the the Fed Cup tie against Australia, it was expected that Australia would easily account for the visiting team from Ukraine. After day one action, it was not going to plan.

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: (L-R) Australian captain Alicia Molik with Daria Gavrilova, Ashleigh Barty, Casey Dellacqua and Destanee Aiava of Australia as they show the Austalilan flag as they celebrate winning the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

Ukraine was spearheaded by 15-year-old Marta Kostyuk who went into the tie ranked at 185. This contrasted with Ash Barty ranked at 16 and Daria Gavrilova at 26.

Barty took the opening match in three sets before Kostyuk upset Gavrilova in straight sets.

On day two it was Barty taking on Marta Kostyuk. With one singles match on grass, under her belt, Barty showed her class to defeat Kostyuk 6-2, 6-3.

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Ashleigh Barty of Australia plays a backhand volley in her reverse singles match against Marta Kostyuk of Ukraine during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia.

The next match saw the unranked Nadiia Kichenok, who substituted for her twin sister, against Daria Gavrilova who had lost to Kostyuk on day one.

Kichenok is a doubles specialist, but looked like she should be back on the singles tour. The Ukrainian was hitting the ball with more power, and combined with her big serve, that was enough to outclass Gavrilova. The score was 4-6, 6-2, 6-3, which levelled the tie at 2-2.

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Nadiia Kichenok of Ukraine hitting a forehand, in her singles match against Daria Gavrilova of Australia during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

The Kichenok twins then teamed up to take on the Australian doubles pairing of Casey Dellacqua and Ash Barty. The Australians are ranked at nine and 10 on the WTA rankings. The Kichenok’s are also accomplished doubles players with rankings of 46 for Lyudmyla and Nadiia at 37.

Dellacqua, who was celebrating her birthday, along with Barty, were wanting to clinch the tie for Australia. That is what they did. They looked comfortable on grass and were always in control. The final score was 6-3, 6-4. This set off the celebrations, with many of the players showing how important the Fed Cup is to them. Tears were shed, but the team had achieved what they set out to do, and that was to advance to the World Group Play-offs.

Looking back, it may have been the wrong choice to go with grass, but then again, Australia won. Gavrilova was most uncomfortable playing on grass, she looked lost at times as she struggled to time the ball. Barty thankfully adapted her game after losing the first set of the opening match, and from there carried the Australian team. When the tie was locked at 2-2 heading into the doubles the Australian captain was feeling confident knowing she had Dellacqua and Barty ready to take to the court.

The tie was a big success for tennis in Canberra. A good crowd of over 3,000 on each day was in attendance and the teams got to enjoy a trip to the Lodge to meet with Prime Minister Turnbull.

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Ashleigh Barty of Australia plays a forehand against Marta Kostyuk of Ukraine in her singles match during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Marta Kostyuk of Ukraine serving to Ashleigh Barty of Australia in her singles match during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Ashleigh Barty of Australia serves in her singles match against Marta Kostyuk of Ukraine during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Ashleigh Barty of Australia hitting a forehand in her singles match against Marta Kostyuk of Ukraine during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Marta Kostyuk of Ukraine plays a backhand in her reverse singles match against Ashleigh Barty of Australia during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Marta Kostyuk of Ukraine after playing a backhand in her reverse singles match against Ashleigh Barty of Australia during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Ashleigh Barty of Australia prepares to serve in her singles match against Marta Kostyuk of Ukraine during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media) in her singles match against Marta Kostyuk of Ukraine during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Marta Kostyuk of Ukraine hitting a backhand in her reverse singles match against Ashleigh Barty of Australia during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Marta Kostyuk of Ukraine shakes hands with Ashleigh Barty of Australia following reverse singles match as part of the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Ashleigh Barty of Australia during an on-court interview that followed a reverse singles match as part of the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Ashleigh Barty of Australia with Alicia Molik as they leave the court after Barty’s win in the reverse singles match as part of the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Ashleigh Barty of Australia speaking to the media after Barty’s win in the reverse singles match as part of the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Nadiia Kichenok of Ukraine prepares to serve in her singles match against Daria Gavrilova of Australia during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Nadiia Kichenok of Ukraine in the service motion, in her singles match against Daria Gavrilova of Australia during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Daria Gavrilova of Australia listens to Alicia Molik during a change of end in her singles match against Nadiia Kichenok of Ukraine during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Nadiia Kichenok of Ukraine prepares to hit a backhand, in her singles match against Daria Gavrilova of Australia during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Daria Gavrilova commences her service action in her singles match against Nadiia Kichenok of Ukraine during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: A linesman’s cap during the match between Daria Gavrilova against Nadiia Kichenok of Ukraine during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Daria Gavrilova hitting a forehand in her singles match against Nadiia Kichenok of Ukraine during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: A linesman stares at the service line during the match between Daria Gavrilova against Nadiia Kichenok of Ukraine during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Daria Gavrilova during a rally in her singles match against Nadiia Kichenok of Ukraine during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Daria Gavrilova hitting a backhand in her singles match against Nadiia Kichenok of Ukraine during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Daria Gavrilova pumps her fist after winning a point in her singles match against Nadiia Kichenok of Ukraine during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Nadiia Kichenok of Ukraine prepares to serve, in her singles match against Daria Gavrilova of Australia during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Ukraine captain Mikhail Filima reacts after Nadiia Kichenok of Ukraine breaks serve, in her singles match against Daria Gavrilova of Australia during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Scoreboard and southern stand view during the match of Nadiia Kichenok of Ukraine against Daria Gavrilova of Australia during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: A Ukraine flag is reflected in the camera as Nadiia Kichenok of Ukraine serves against Daria Gavrilova of Australia during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Daria Gavrilova hits a running forehand in her singles match against Nadiia Kichenok of Ukraine during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Nadiia Kichenok of Ukraine hitting a backhand volley, in her singles match against Daria Gavrilova of Australia during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Daria Gavrilova serving in her singles match against Nadiia Kichenok of Ukraine during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Daria Gavrilova celebrates a point during her singles match against Nadiia Kichenok of Ukraine during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Lizette Cabrera, who was a hitting partner for the Fed Cup team, looks on during the match between Daria Gavrilova and Nadiia Kichenok of Ukraine during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Daria Gavrilova hits a forehand during her singles match against Nadiia Kichenok of Ukraine during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Nadiia Kichenok of Ukraine in her singles match against Daria Gavrilova of Australia during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Nadiia Kichenok of Ukraine hits a forehand in her singles match against Daria Gavrilova of Australia during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Nadiia Kichenok of Ukraine celebrates her singles win against Daria Gavrilova of Australia during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Nadiia Kichenok of Ukraine takes a drink as she leaves the court following her singles win against Daria Gavrilova of Australia during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: The Kichenok twins of Ukraine playing doubles against Australia Casey Dellacqua and Ashliegh Barty during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Nadiia Kichenok plays a volley with sister Lyudmyla Kichenok for Ukraine play in the doubles match against Ashleigh Barty and Casey Dellacqua of Australia during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Matt King/Getty Images)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Ash Barty hits a service return with Casey Dellacqua looking on as they are playing doubles against the Kichenok twins of Ukraine during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: The birthday girls Casey Dellacqua looking on as she teamed up with Ash Barty playing doubles against the Kichenok twins of Ukraine during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Kichenok of Ukraine smashes the ball in doubles match against Ash Barty and Casey Dellacqua of Australia during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Marta Kostyuk (L) and Dasha Lopatetskaya (R) of Ukraine nervously watch the doubles match between Ash Barty and Casey Dellacqu of Australia and Lyudmyla and Nadiia Kichenok of Ukraine during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Nadiia Kichenok plays a backhand when playing with sister Lyudmyla Kichenok for Ukraine play in the doubles match against Ashleigh Barty and Casey Dellacqua of Australia during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Matt King/Getty Images)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Lyudmyla Kichenok plays a forehand when playing with sister Nadiia Kichenok for Ukraine play in the doubles match against Ashleigh Barty and Casey Dellacqua of Australia during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Matt King/Getty Images)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Casey Dellacqua runs wide to chase down a ball with Ash Barty looking on as they are playing doubles against the Kichenok twins of Ukraine during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. Ukraine captain Mikhail Filima lifts his legs to take evasive action as Dellacqua approaches. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Nadiia Kichenok and Lyudmyla Kichenok return to court for Ukraine after a bathroom break at the end of the first set during play in the doubles match against Ashleigh Barty and Casey Dellacqua of Australia during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. The players are with Urkaine’s captain Mikhail Filima. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Casey Dellacqua is aced against the Kichenok twins of Ukraine during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Daria Gavrilova and Lizette Cabrera cheering for Ash Barty and Casey Dellacqua during the doubles against the Kichenok twins of Ukraine during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Lyudmyla Kichenok plays a backhand as sister Nadiia Kichenok looks on. They were playing for Ukraine in the doubles match against Ashleigh Barty and Casey Dellacqua of Australia during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Nadiia Kichenok plays a forehand as she partners sister Lyudmyla Kichenok. They were playing for Ukraine in the doubles match against Ashleigh Barty and Casey Dellacqua of Australia during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Casey Dellacqua hitting a forehand against the Kichenok twins of Ukraine during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Nadiia Kichenok follows through after serving in her match with sister Lyudmyla Kichenok. They were playing for Ukraine in the doubles match against Ashleigh Barty and Casey Dellacqua of Australia during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Lyudmyla Kichenok plays a volley in her match with sister Nadiia Kichenok. They were playing for Ukraine in the doubles match against Ashleigh Barty and Casey Dellacqua of Australia during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Australian supporters cheering during a change of ends during the doubles match with Lyudmyla andNadiia Kichenok playing for Ukraine against Ashleigh Barty and Casey Dellacqua of Australia during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Ash Barty and Casey Dellacqua return to court after a change of ends in their doubles match against the Kichenok twins of Ukraine during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. Captain Alicia Molik is also shown. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Ash Barty crouches down as Dellacqua serves in their doubles match against the Kichenok twins of Ukraine during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. Captain Alicia Molik is also shown in the background. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Lyudmyla Kichenok (r) talking to sister Nadiia Kichenok between points. They were playing for Ukraine in the doubles match against Ashleigh Barty and Casey Dellacqua of Australia during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Nadiia Kichenok waits at net for sister Lyudmyla Kichenok to serve. They were playing for Ukraine in the doubles match against Ashleigh Barty and Casey Dellacqua of Australia during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: “Yours, mine.” Nadiia Kichenok and Lyudmyla Kichenok try to play at a lob shot. The two players got in each others way and lost the point. They were playing for Ukraine in the doubles match against Ashleigh Barty and Casey Dellacqua of Australia during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Ash Barty plays a backhand in her doubles match with Casey Dellacqua in their doubles match against the Nadiia and Lyudmyla Kichenok of Ukraine during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia.(Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Nadiia Kichenok plays a volley in her match with Lyudmyla Kichenok. They were playing for Ukraine in the doubles match against Ashleigh Barty and Casey Dellacqua of Australia during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Ash Barty with Casey Dellacqua in their doubles match against the Nadiia and Lyudmyla Kichenok of Ukraine during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. Captain Alicia Molik is also shown. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Nadiia Kichenok (r) with Lyudmyla Kichenok. They were playing for Ukraine in the doubles match against Ashleigh Barty and Casey Dellacqua of Australia during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Nadiia Kichenok hitting a forehand with Lyudmyla Kichenok. They were playing for Ukraine in the doubles match against Ashleigh Barty and Casey Dellacqua of Australia during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Lyudmyla Kichenok ready to receive serve in her match with sister Nadiia Kichenok. They were playing for Ukraine in the doubles match against Ashleigh Barty and Casey Dellacqua of Australia during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Ash Barty serving in her match with Casey Dellacqua in their doubles match against the Kichenok twins of Ukraine during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Casey Dellacqua attempts to return serve in her doubles match with Ash Barty against Nadiia and Lyudmyla Kichenok of Ukraine during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Lyudmyla Kichenok plays a smash in her match with sister Nadiia Kichenok. They were playing for Ukraine in the doubles match against Ashleigh Barty and Casey Dellacqua of Australia during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Lyudmyla Kichenok plays a backhand return of serve with sister Nadiia Kichenok looking on. They were playing for Ukraine in the doubles match against Ashleigh Barty and Casey Dellacqua of Australia during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Ash Barty returns serve in her match with Casey Dellacqua in their doubles match against the Kichenok twins of Ukraine during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Lyudmyla Kichenok plays a forehand return of serve with sister Nadiia Kichenok looking on. They were playing for Ukraine in the doubles match against Ashleigh Barty and Casey Dellacqua of Australia during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Ash Barty discusses tactics with Casey Dellacqua in their doubles match against the Kichenok twins of Ukraine during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Casey Dellacqua looks to Ash Barty as she celebrates the win against Nadiia and Lyudmyla Kichenok of Ukraine during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Casey Dellacqua hugs Ash Barty as they celebrate clinching the tie against Nadiia and Lyudmyla Kichenok of Ukraine during the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Casey Dellacqua and Ash Barty shake hands with Nadiia and Lyudmyla Kichenok of Ukraine following the deciding doubles match in the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Casey Dellacqua and Ash Barty hug team captain, Alicia Molik after defeating Nadiia and Lyudmyla Kichenok of Ukraine to win the deciding doubles match in the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: A team celebration hug after Casey Dellacqua and Ash Barty defeated Nadiia and Lyudmyla Kichenok of Ukraine to win the deciding doubles match in the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: The team celebrates after Casey Dellacqua and Ash Barty defeated Nadiia and Lyudmyla Kichenok of Ukraine to win the deciding doubles match in the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: The Ukrainian team of Nadiia and Lyudmyla Kichenok, Marta Kostyuk and Dasha Lopatetskaya leave the court after the deciding doubles match in the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Daria Gavrilova gives Ash Barty a big hug after the deciding doubles match in the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Alicia Molik hugs an emotional Ash Barty after the deciding doubles match in the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Alicia Molik thanks the crowd for their support as the team gathers for a photo after the deciding doubles match in the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: (L-R) Australian captain Alicia Molik, Daria Gavrilova, Ashleigh Barty, Casey Dellacqua and Destanee Aiava of Australia show the Austalilan flag as they celebrate winning the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Australian captain Alicia Molik with Daria Gavrilova, Ashleigh Barty, Casey Dellacqua and Destanee Aiava of Australia as they celebrate winning the Fed Cup tie between Australia and the Ukraine at the Canberra Tennis Centre on February 11, 2018 in Canberra, Australia. Hitting partner Lizette Cabrera and the support people joined the team for a photo. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Ash Barty and Casey Dellacqua leave the court after their tie-clinching doubles win. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: The Australian Fed Cup team talk to the media after their win. From l to r: Destanee Aiava, Daria Gavrilova, Alicia Molik, Casey Dellacqua and Ashliegh Barty. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: The Australian Fed Cup team talk to the media after their win. Casey Dellacqua talking about how special it is to play in Fed Cup. (Photo by Rob Keating/Keating Media)