The world No. 7, last year's runner-up to Amelie Mauresmo, has a first-round bye and will begin her title bid against Iveta Benesova of the Czech Republic or fellow Russian Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova, who meet on Tuesday.

CNN: Safina backs out of Dubai appearance

Among four all-Pemiership One ties, holders Wasps will meet Newcastle in a repeat of last year's final, while reigning league champions Leicester, who like Wasps received a bye into the fifth round, take on London Irish at The Stoop.

BBC: Minnows face mighty Quins