Venus, who also missed last year’s 3-1 win over Thailand in Invercargill, has decided to return to his home in London after the Australian Open for family commitments.
If New Zealand win the team would advance to a World Group I tie in September, but a loss would result in the team being demoted to World Group II, also playing next in September.
Stuff managing director Nadia Tolich said it was exciting to be partnering with Tennis NZ to provide exclusive coverage of the tie.
“Our audience loves live sport. The response to our coverage of the FIFA Women’s World Cup and the men’s Rugby World Cup last year was so overwhelming that we couldn’t wait to serve up another exciting event for New Zealand,” Tolich said.
“Riding off the back of a great two weeks of tennis at the ASB Classic, followed by the Australian Open, we are thrilled at Stuff to be able to bring to our audience this Davis Cup tie between New Zealand and Turkey.”
Gareth Archer, Tennis NZ’s commercial and marketing manager said partnering with Stuff will allow tennis fans from around the country to watch the tie for free.
“Tennis New Zealand are excited to be working with Stuff to bring the Davis Cup to Kiwis around the country,” Archer said.
“There’s nothing better than having our national team playing at home and it’s awesome the coverage will be free and accessible for everyone.”