Sharapova to play in Russia's Fed Cup tie

Moscow: Maria Sharapova has committed herself to playing in Russia's Fed Cup first round tie against Spain in February, the world number four said.

"Not sure if everyone knows, but I will be playing Fed Cup for Russia versus Spain after (the Australian Open)," the Florida-based Russian said on her official website (www.mariasharapova.com). "So glad we get to play in Moscow! I will have four weeks in the Australian summer and then a week in the Moscow winter."

Russia host Spain in the Olympic indoor arena on February 4-5. Sharapova has not played for her native country since losing to France's Virginie Razzano in straight sets in the Fed Cup quarter-finals last February before being replaced for the reserse singles the following day.

Russia went on to beat France 3-2, then crushed Italy 5-0 in the semi-finals before losing to the Czech Republic 3-2 in the Moscow final last month.