Australian Open: Murray set for another straightforward win
Published:Andy Murray’s last 16 game against Mikhail Kukushkin looks set to be every bit as straightforward as his last round demolition of Michael Llodra – at least according to the Ladbrokes odds.
Murray is the huge favourite heading into this clash and can be backed at 1/50 to make it through to the quarter-finals.
However, things might not be as simple as that, as Murray has already played the Kazakhstani this season.
They met in Brisbane earlier this month and Murray lost the first set before coming through to win 5-7 6-3 6-2 – and the Scot is expecting just as tough a test this time out.
Speaking to BBC Sport, he said: “He’s had two very good wins against Troicki and Monfils.
“He’s won a couple of long five setters so he’s obviously in good shape.
“He’s having the best run at a Grand Slam in his career so I need to play well, but I’m looking forward to it.”
Despite that scare in Brisbane, Murray should have more than enough to comfortably see off his fellow 24-year-old and backing Murray to keep his quest for a first Grand Slam title ticking over in straight sets looks the most appetising bet.
Back Murray to win 3-0 at 4/1.
Meanwhile, Kei Nishikori is looking to upset the odds with a victory over the ever-improving Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in their last 16 game.
Tsonga has dropped just one set in this tournament and was rampant in his 6-2 6-2 6-2 victory over Portugal’s Frederico Gil in the last round.
Tsonga also looks tempting at a very decent 11/10 to win this in straight sets.
