Court Report: Nadal, Nishikori and Zverev ease into the third round

Each day on TENNIS.com, we’ll feature Tennis Channel’s Court Report, a rundown of the day that was in the sport—along with our thoughts on what’s happening on the courts around the world.

A day after top seed Andy Murray was stunned in the opening round of Indian Wells by qualifier Vasek Pospisil, the top seeds remaining had to know no one was safe.

On Sunday, fifth-seeded Rafael Nadal had little trouble as he eased through his opening round against Guido Pella, 6-3, 6-2. The Spaniard started 2017 on a high note by reaching the Australian Open final. He could have a rematch with his Melbourne conqueror Roger Federer as early as the fourth round.

There’s no sense getting ahead of himself though as Nadal's first facing compatriot Fernando Verdasco in the third round. Nadal, a three-time champion, last lifted the BNP Paribas Open crown in 2013.

Alexander Zverev is also still alive in the “group of death” quarter. He eased past Facundo Bagnis, 7-6 (10), 6-3. The teenager is in the doubles draw too (with his older brother Mischa), and they'll battle for a spot in the quarterfinals on Monday.

Earlier in the day, fourth-seeded Kei Nishikori dispatched Daniel Evans, 6-3, 6-4. It’s not over for the Brit though as he’s teaming up with fellow early-round loser Murray in the double draw.

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