Andy Murray's return to tennis saw him help Great Britain finish the day level at 1-1 with Japan in the first tie of their Davis Cup defence.

Murray was first on court in Birmingham facing Taro Daniel and made easy work of getting the hosts on the scoreboard with a 6-1 6-3 6-1.

That gave Great Britain the lead but Japan levelled after the second singles match. Kei Nishikori defeated Dan Evans 6-3 7-5 7-6.

Murray was in imperious form to see off Daniel in straight sets, speaking afterwards about returning to action following the birth of his daughter.

"The last few weeks have been the best of my life, it's been really, really special," he said.

"It's been tough the last few days being away from her for the first time, it's not easy, but it had to happen at some stage and it's a pleasure to come and represent my country.

"The second set and third set were tough, which was good for me because I haven't played for a long time, so I was getting a little bit out of breath.

"I thought I played a good match, I served well and it's a nice start."

The winners of the first round tie in Birmingham will secure their place in the competition's quarter-finals and a spot in the World Group for the 2017 season.

Saturday's crucial doubles match will see the Great Britain pair of Dominic Inglot and Jamie Murray come up against Yoshihito Nishioka and Yasutaka Uchiyama.