London, Mar 18(ANI): Britain’s Davis Cup captain John Lloyd has resigned from the post, following their recent humiliating defeat to Lithuania.

Lloyd, who replaced Jeremy Bates as captain in 2006, now also presides over the worst run in British Davis Cup history after their fifth Davis Cup tie defeat in a row.

However, the 55-year-old said that he enjoyed his time as captain, and is sure that the team could defeat Turkey in July to avoid relegation.

“I am very proud of my time as Davis Cup captain, and grateful to all the players for their support. Davis Cup captaincy is a tough job and I’m sure that the next captain will be as passionate as I was and have no doubt that the team is capable of defeating Turkey in July,” The Telegraph quoted Lloyd, as saying.

“I have been a Davis Cup player, captain and now it is time for me to become a fan,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) chief executive Roger Draper paid tribute to Lloyd, and said: “I would like to thank John for all his efforts and in particular recognise his real achievement in guiding the team back into the World Group of the Davis Cup.”

“He has always shown great passion and enthusiasm as captain,” Draper said.

The LTA’s first choice as a replacement would have been Tim Henman, but he made it clear last week that he would turn down any offer to become captain as he does not feel ready for the responsibility and the commitment that comes with the job.

Britain needs to win the Turkey relegation playoff in order to avoid dropping into the Europe/Africa zone Group III. (ANI)