It's been over two years since Berdych last lifted an ATP Tour title but the Czech looks well placed this week, particularly after a dominant 6-2, 6-0 second round win over the dangerous Philipp Kohlschreiber. 

He should face his first major test today against world number 23 Verdasco who had a few problems overcoming Flavio Cipolla 2-6, 6-1, 6-2 on Wednesday. The Italian is a gritty defensive player and Verdasco found himself frustrated for much of the first set.

"It was a very difficult match," the Spaniard said afterwards. "He was a player, I had never played before. It is always tricky at the start, when you are trying to figure out his strengths and weaknesses. I didn't start playing well and made too many unforced errors. In the second set, I played with more spin and didn't take as many risks. I came back and in the second and third sets, I played very well. Last year, I lost in three first rounds during the Asian swing, but my form is like in 2009. I am trying to win all the points I can and I will give my best for sure. I want to be back in the Top 20 then push towards the Top 10."

Berdych and Verdasco have been rivals for a very long time but the current rankings have held sway on the head-to-head with Berdych leading it 7-4. He's won all of their last three matches on hard courts, including a 6-4, 6-2, 6-3 victory at the Aussie Open this year. 

Prediction: Berdych in two.