Watson first on to big stage

Heather Watson was set to open proceedings on Rod Laver Arena last night, taking on third seed Victoria Azarenka in her first-round clash at the Australian Open.

The 19-year-old from Guernsey was first up on the main show court in Melbourne on a day which features four other Britons in action.

James Ward and Laura Robson, whose victories in qualifying on Saturday swelled the British contingent in the main draws to six – a 20-year best for an overseas grand slam – also play their opening encounters.

Ward meets Slovenian Blaz Kavcic, while Robson takes on 13th seed Jelena Jankovic on Margaret Court Arena.

Anne Keothavong and Elena Baltacha are on court 11. Baltacha faces Stephanie Foretz Gacon, and Keothavong follows with her clash against Mona Barthel.

Andy Murray, the fourth seed, will open his bid to reach a third successive final here tomorrow when he meets young American Ryan Harrison.