Ireland must get ready for life in Group Three of the Europe Zone after they were whitewashed 5-0 by South Africa in their Davis Cup relegation play-off at Centurion.

With Conor Niland's side 2-0 down following James McGee and Sam Barry's singles losses on Friday, it was up to doubles partners James Cluskey and David O'Hare to try and keep the match alive.

The duo started brightly, forcing the first break point against Dean O'Brien and Ruan Roelofse, but they soon wilted and were beaten in three sets 7-6 (7-4), 6-4, 6-3.

Already consigned to life in Group Three next term Barry and McGee were charged with trying to save some face in Sunday’s reverse singles but both were beaten in comprehensive fashion.

Ireland’s number one McGee was dispatched 6-1, 7-5 while Barry was also seen off in straight sets, losing 6-4, 6-3.