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The second round action continues on Day 4 of the 2016 Australian Open as an exciting line-up of matches is in store on Thursday. Lleyton Hewitt’s retirement talk will once again take precedence as he crosses swords with fellow veteran, David Ferrer. Potential upset: Anastasija Sevastova defeats (20) Ana IvanovicPotential thriller: (15) Madison Keys vs Yaroslava Shvedova There are many other must-watch matches on the schedule. Here’s our pick of what to watch on Day 4:
#4 (4) Stan Wawrinka vs Radek Stepanek
This is a clash of different styles and one that is sure to have some brilliant shotmaking. The serve-and-volleys of Radek Stepanek will meet the explosive power of Stan Wawrinka, which will make for an intriguing match-up.
Interestingly, it is the Czech who leads the head-to-head record 5-2 but the last time Stepanek defeated the Swiss was back in 2009. Their most recent showdown was in Tokyo last year which the World No. 4 won 7-5, 6-3. Expect a show of finesse from the wily Czech before Wawrinka’s dazzling backhands drown it out.
#3 (9) Karolina Pliskova vs Julia Gorges
Both of them like hitting the ball hard and are familiar with each other’s play. The former doubles partners have crossed swords only once at the 2014 Pattaya Open, which the Czech won in three sets.
The 12th-ranked Pliskova is the better-placed player with the bigger serve and the better ranking. However, she flattered to deceive on the big stage last year even though she impressed at many other tournaments. She went 4-4 in Slams as nerves got the better of her when it mattered the most.
Having said that, the 23-year-old put up a determined effort during the Fed Cup final and was instrumental in leading the Czechs to victory. Could that trigger a more confident display from her at the Majors?
#2 (8) David Ferrer vs Lleyton Hewitt
Two veterans clash in this match, both of whom are known for their exceptional fighting skills. 2013 French Open runner-up David Ferrer should have the edge, having beaten the former World No. 1 Lleyton Hewitt the last two times.
But it is a different occasion for the Aussie now. This is his swansong and he would be giving his all to get a chance to play at his home Slam one more time. Besides, the entire Rod Laver Arena would be behind the 34-year-old on Thursday. Could that propel the evergreen warrior to pull off an upset on his farewell tour?
#1 Indian interest
The irrepressible pair of Sania Mirza and Martina Hingis begin their quest for their third straight Grand Slam title on Thursday. They face the Brazilian-Colombian pair of Mariana Duque-Marino and Teliana Pereira in the first round.
Also in action are men’s doubles fourth seeds Rohan Bopanna and Florin Mergea. They kick off their campaign against the Aussie duo of Omar Jasika and Nick Kyrgios.
