Rusedski threatened to quit Davis Cup after Tim Henman pulled out

Tim Henman's decision to quit playing Davis Cup tennis led to Rusedski considering his future.

But the British number two has now told the Lawn Tennis Association that he is available for the Euro-African Zone match in Tel Aviv on 4 March.

"Although everyone was taken aback by Tim's announcement it did not take me long to make my decision," he said.

"I love the Davis Cup. I just really wanted to focus on my Australian Open and as soon as I was out and I had a rational time to think about it, I knew I was going to play.

"I am looking forward to the responsibility of being the veteran of the team now. I still want to be a part of the team and I still think we have a chance to do well."

British captain Jeremy Bates had faced the prospect of fielding two inexperienced youngsters for the tie.

Alex Bogdanovic, Andrew Banks, Jonathan Marray and the US Open junior champion Andrew Murray all form a list of promising players lacking senior experience.

However Rusedski's decision means the blow of Henman's departure is softened.

"Having a world-class player like Greg is invaluable to the squad, not only in terms of his match play but also the experience he can impart on the younger members of the team," said Bates.