NICK Kyrgios' role in tomorrow's Davis Cup clash with the US remains uncertain because of illness, leaving Australian captain Lleyton Hewitt to weigh up several possibilities - including playing himself. 
Hewitt has until an hour before the 10am draw today to change his team of Kyrgios, Bernard Tomic, Sam Groth and John Peers.
One of the possibilities is to leave the team unchanged and have Newcombe medallist Groth contest the opening-day singles against world No.11 John Isner and to rest Kyrgios for Sunday's reverse singles.
Another is for Hewitt to briefly end his short retirement - a scenario which would not surprise the Americans, who have hawkishly monitored Australia's training sessions.
"We won't be surprised," US doubles player Bob Bryan said.
"I mean, Lleyton's put in a lot of work this week. Our practice courts are right next to theirs and he's been playing a lot of singles, been playing doubles, so we're gonna be ready for anything. But if he plays for Australia it won't be a bad choice for the Aussies. The guy's a legend and he'll step up just fine." Kyrgios breathed fresh hopes into an injury-marred preparation during a 35-minute hit with Matt Reid in hot, humid conditions.
Watched from Kooyong's balcony by US captain Jim Courier, Kyrgios was explosive and listless.
And he was tight-lipped before and after practice.
The Daily Telegraph understands Kyrgios has been severely affected by a virus which has left him with swelling, lethargy and painful mouth ulcers.
His mother Nil said: "It was hard to get him here." Asked whether her son would lead Australia into battle tomorrow, she said: "I think there will be a discussion." Hewitt was equally circumspect when asked to assess Kyrgios. "He went all right." Hewitt said.Kyrgios was unable to join teammates at the noon session.