Former world No.8 Alicia Molik has been appointed as the new captain of the Australian Fed Cup team.

Molik replaces David Taylor, who stepped down to concentrate on his duties as coach of Samantha Stosur.

Her first task will be trying to topple defending champions the Czech Republic on their home court next month.

Molik said while the February 9-10 tie would be tough, Australia’s 3-2 win over Germany in the World Group play-offs in Stuttgart last year showed they could not be underestimated.

“Dave has left big shoes to fill and I am really inspired by the challenge,” Molik said.

“It is an exciting time in Australian tennis and we have the talent in this team to produce some great results.

“Of course we go in underdogs, but undaunted.

“These girls showed against Germany in Germany last year that they are capable of playing wonderful tennis and winning ties that no one expects them to win.”

Tennis Australia head of professional tennis Todd Woodbridge said Molik was ideal for the job.

“Alicia’s strong and recent involvement with the tour and Fed Cup gives her a great perspective for the captaincy and her personality and leadership style will be an asset for the team,” Woodbridge said.

Nicole Bradtke will remain as the Fed Cup coach.

Molik is a dual grand slam doubles champion, winning the Australian title in 2005 and the French in 2007.

She also won a bronze medal at the Athens Olympics and was an Australian Open singles quarter-finalist.