Sharapova has missed her Fed Cup debut three times through injury

The Australian Open champion outclassed the world number 81 to level the tie at 1-1 in Tel Aviv.

Sharapova, who needed just 28 minutes to win the first set, dropped serve when 5-2 up in the second but she was never really in trouble.

The 20-year-old will next play Shahar Peer on Sunday in the reverse singles.

"It was very weird to come on court being down one love," said Sharapova.

"Usually when I play a match both players start the match at the same level, so this was different but I'm glad it's over and I can't wait for the match versus Shahar."

Earlier on Saturday, Peer had completed an amazing fight back to defeat Dinara Safina 0-6 6-2 6-2.

Sharapova, who has lived in Florida since she was nine years old, has been criticised in the past for not taking part in the Fed Cup.

Russia have been the competition's most consistent team in recent years, winning the trophy on three of the last four occasions.

Israel have lost their previous two encounters against Russia but have won their last 10 Fed Cup ties, with last year's victories over Canada and Austria securing a first-round spot.