The British staff, with out Andy Murray for the primary time since his latest retirement, has a special really feel for the Davis Cup Finals group stage occasion.
Dan Evans and Neal Skupski, who memorably teamed as much as safe a “bonkers” doubles victory which put Britain through to the eight-team knockout stage in Manchester final 12 months, stay within the squad alongside Draper and supply expertise.
However Billy Harris – a late-bloomer who has simply moved to a career-high one hundred and first on the earth aged 29 – and 28-year-old Wimbledon doubles champion Henry Patten might be handed debuts.
British quantity two Cameron Norrie is lacking by the arm harm which dominated him out of the latest US Open.
Smith praised Draper’s dedication to enjoying for his nation regardless of the brief turnaround from his exploits in New York.
“He’s actually excited to return right here however we have now to get him on the apply court docket, see how he’s doing, assess him,” added Smith, talking on Tuesday earlier than Draper linked up with the squad.
“In the end I’ll make the decision on that.
“I’ve to pick the staff to do what’s finest, not only for tomorrow, but in addition we have now actually essential matches on the weekend as properly.
“We simply should weigh up danger versus reward somewhat bit.
“We’ve got 4 guys right here who’re greater than able to going out tomorrow if that’s required and doing a extremely good job.”
Smith’s squad face Finland, Argentina and Canada within the round-robin occasion at Manchester’s AO Area.
The highest two groups progress to the eight-nation finals which will likely be held in Malaga between 19-24 November.