Returning to tennis for the first time since becoming a father, Andy Murray will lead Britain’s Davis Cup team when it opens the defence of its title against Japan next week.

Murray and his brother, doubles specialist Jamie, were part of the five-man squad selected Tuesday by captain Leon Smith for the first-round World Group series in Birmingham on March 4-6.

Andy Murray’s wife, Kim Sears, gave birth to their first child, daughter Sophia, on February 7. Murray has not played since losing to Novak Djokovic in the Australian Open final last month.

“Andy Murray has once again demonstrated his commitment to the team and his country in making himself available to play, especially so soon after becoming a father,” Britain captain Leon Smith said.

Murray secured all three points when Britain beat Belgium in last year’s final for its first Davis Cup title in 79 years.

Also selected in the squad were Kyle Edmund, Dominic Inglot and Dan Evans. The winner of the match will play Serbia or Kazakhstan in the quarterfinals on July 15-17.

“Japan have a very strong team, progressed well in recent years and, with Kei Nishikori, have an established top-10 player,” Smith said. “It will be a test for us, but I’m confident in our team and I’m sure when the guys pull on their GB shirt they will give their all.”