Barty won't return till clay court season as Australia replace Russia in Billie Jean King Cup Finals

The ITF Board of Directors have confirmed that Australia won't play at the qualifiers for the Billie Jean King Cup Finals between 15-16 April and will instead receive a direct bye into the Finals.

This is due to the ITF replacing Russia and Belarus following the suspension of their membership and from participation in the team competitions.

As the highest ranked losing semi-finalist in 2021, they move through while their opponents, Slovakia also receive a bye.

This means that Ashleigh Barty, the current World No.1 who had earmarked her return to be during this tournament won't play now till at least the clay court season.

Belarus were also due to compete but their opponents, Belgium will now receive a bye also and the trio now join Switzerland and seven remaining qualifiers and the host nation at the Finals.