Billie Jean King Cup 2024 qualifying: Great Britain take on France in bid for finals spot

Great Britain captain Anne Keothavong says her side are the “heavy underdogs” in their Billie Jean King Cup qualifying tie against France – but they are happy to put “all the pressure” on their opponents.

The winner will secure a place in November’s finals in Spain.

British number one Katie Boulter will open Friday’s tie – which is live on the BBC – against Diane Parry.

That will be followed by Emma Raducanu against Caroline Garcia.

“It’s going to be very difficult, no doubt about it,” Keothavong told BBC Sport.

“We are the heavy underdogs – and I’m happy to put all the pressure on the French team.

“The expectations are on them. None of that really fazes us, because we are excited for the challenge.”

Britain reached the semi-finals of the 2022 competition but did not make the last eight last year, having lost their qualifier against France.

The two nations have played each other four times, with Great Britain and France winning twice each.

You can watch the tie live on the BBC Sport website and app and BBC iPlayer, alongside live text commentary on the website. Friday’s tie is also on BBC Red Button from 13:30 BST.