Rafael Nadal said he felt "comfortable back on the clay" after recording a routine straight-sets victory over Philipp Kohlschreiber in the Davis Cup on his return from a lengthy injury lay-off.

Playing for the first time since January's Australian Open having overcome a hip problem, world number one Nadal thumped Kohlschreiber 6-2 6-2 6-3 to level Spain's World Group tie with Germany at 1-1.

"It's positive, of course, winning in straight sets," the 16-time grand slam champion was quoted as saying by the Davis Cup's official website.

"It was a solid match. I feel comfortable back on the clay.

"It's a great feeling to be back. Coming back from injuries is always difficult, but it's great to be in front of my crowd on a very memorable day. I'm very happy with the match."

Nadal's victory was a timely one for Spain after David Ferrer was beaten 6-4 6-2 6-2 by Alexander Zverev in Valencia.

The tie between Italy and defending champions France is also level at 1-1, as is Croatia's fixture against Kazakhstan.

Lucas Pouille's five-set win over Andreas Seppi in Genoa was followed by Fabio Fognini coming from behind to beat Jeremy Chardy in four.

Marin Cilic dropped just five games in his victory over Dmitry Popko, but Borna Coric could not double Croatia's lead as he suffered a surprise four-set defeat to Mikhail Kukushkin.