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SCMP Reporter

MICHAEL BROWN

The 32-year-old Australian will pick up where he left off a year ago when he fronts up for Hong Kong in Davis Cup action against Kuwait this weekend. The former Ladies Recreation Club coach last played for Hong Kong in 2002 and is looking forward to getting back into the fray at Victoria Park.

Where have you been?

I went home to Australia after the 2002 tie against Malaysia which we won. I was due to play against Lebanon last April but that tie was rescheduled because of Sars and I could not get back for the rearranged match.

Did you miss Hong Kong?

Yes, definitely. Especially all the shopping and the excitement. I come from a town south of Sydney called Wollongong. It is quite different from Hong Kong. Life is far slower.

Have you been playing much tennis?

A lot. I coach the kids back in the Wollongong club. I also played in a local tournament last June and made it through to the final.

What was the first thing you  did when you came back to  Hong Kong?

Practised. It is good to spend time on a tennis court, especially with such an important tie coming up.

So life has not really changed all that much for you?

In fact it has changed a great deal. I'm married now. When I was last in Hong Kong, I was single, although my girlfriend Anne came with me.

Is your wife with you?

No. She is studying for her law exams back home. But she has given me a shopping list.

How do you rate Hong Kong's chances against Kuwait?

Our chances are pretty good. I think we should win. They have a couple of players with world rankings and they should be decent opposition. But judging on their past results, I think we hold the upper hand.

Looking forward to the tie?

Yes. I love playing Davis Cup for Hong Kong.

What is your record in Davis Cup action?

Won eight, lost one - to a Taiwanese in 2002. I hope I can add to the win stat by the end of the week.



2 minutes with ... MICHAEL BROWN