Rafael Nadal
Rafael Nadal in action against Gilles Muller in the BNP Paribas Open 2016 Getty

Spaniard Rafael Nadal takes on fellow countryman Fernando Verdasco in the third round of the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells on 15 March (Tuesday).

Where to watch live

The match is expected to start at 10pm GMT. Live coverage of the game in the UK is available on Sky Sports 1 and Sky Sports 1 HD. Live scores and real time updates are available on the ATP World Tour's official website.

Overview

Nadal, the three-time Indian Wells champion, comes into the game on the back of a hard-fought 6-2, 2-6, 6-4 win over Gilles Muller in the second round. Nadal looked like he was getting back into rhythm, though it is obvious that his knee and back injuries have taken a toll on his body. The Spaniard saved 11 out of 14 break points he faced, and eventually broke Muller in the final game of the match, but he will have to do better if he has to win his first title of 2016.

Fernando Verdasco
Fernando Verdasco beat Rafael Nadal in the first round of the Australian Open 2016 Getty

The big serving left hander, Verdasco comes into the tie relatively fresher after his opponent in the second round Martin Klizan retired hurt, and is capable of beating Nadal on his day. His shock first round victory at the Australian Open over his fellow countryman is an example of how destructive he can be when on form. The World No 65 will be quietly confident of repeating his Australian Open heroics, and if his opponent is off form then we can expect another upset.

Betting odds (betfair)

  • Rafael Nadal to win: 1/4
  • Fernando Verdasco to win:13/5

Head-to-Head

The duo have met 17 times in ATP history with Nadal winning on 14 occasions. They last played in the first round of the Australian Open in 2016 where Verdasco shocked Nadal to win the tie 7-6, 4-6, 3-6, 7-6, 6-2.

PNB Paribas Masters History

Nadal and Verdasco have played once at the Indian Wells Masters, with Nadal winning that one 6-4, 6-4.

Rafael Nadal