Jamaica's Davis Cup team heads into a decisive second day of their World Group II Playoff against New Zealand with the tie delicately poised at 1-1, following an inspired performance from veteran Rowland Phillips on Saturday in Kingston.

Phillips, Jamaica’s most successful Davis Cup player, delivered when it mattered most, securing a hard-fought 6-3, 3-6, 6-3 victory over Kiranpal Pannu to keep the hosts in contention. The 30-year-old journeyman showed grit and composure against the higher-ranked New Zealander, bouncing back from a second-set dip to close out the match in style.

Earlier in the day, Jamaica suffered an early setback as Blaise Bicknell fell to Jack Loutit in three sets. Bicknell took the opening set 6-3 but struggled to maintain his momentum, eventually going down 6-3, 2-6, 1-6.

With the tie now balanced, Sunday’s action at the Eric Bell Tennis Centre promises to be crucial. Play resumes at 11:00 AM with the doubles rubber, followed by the reverse singles, as Jamaica looks to capitalize on home advantage and push for victory over the Kiwis.