Billie Jean King Cup: Emma Raducanu and Katie Boulter working together to lead Great Britain’s pursuit of glory

The mood in the British camp has been far from tense during their time in Malaga.

When they could not leave their hotel on Wednesday because of heavy rain and flash flooding in the Andalusian city, spirits were kept high with games of spikeball and a yoga session.

The group also celebrated Raducanu’s 22nd birthday together. Balloons and banners were hung outside her bedroom door in the morning, followed by the presentation of a candlelit chocolate cake in the evening.

The camaraderie has also been strengthened with what Raducanu describes as a “few inside jokes” running through the camp.

“I don’t think there is any pressure. We’re just enjoying ourselves,” said Boulter.

“I know they’ve got my back, so no matter what happens, I’m just going to go out and do my best. I know they’ll support me.”

While Raducanu and Boulter have been leading from the front, Keothavong stresses her team is more than just a double act.

Harriet Dart, Heather Watson and Olivia Nicholls all put points on the board in Britain’s run to the 2022 semi-finals and, although they have not yet been called upon in Malaga, have already played key roles.

Watson is described as the “life and soul” of the group, with Nicholls also behind a lot of the “banter”.

“Sometimes it’s like when I leave my children at home, what are they up to today? It’s like picking up extra kids,” said Keothavong.