By Kamakshi Tandon

Novak Djokovic [12] vs. Rafael Nadal [2]Stadium 1 – 12:00 pm

With Djokovic and Murray playing against each other in the semifinals, Nadal knew that in the Indian Wells final he was going to be facing a teenage rival he's played only once before on the main tour. But what a contrast in those two matches. Djokovic went down to sets to Nadal and then retired in the quarterfinals of Roland Garros last year. Murray was up two sets to one against him at the Australian Open in January before Nadal finally came through in a 3-hour and 51-minute match.

As a result, the most memorable moment of Djokovic's encounter with Nadal at Roland Garros came after the two had left the court – namely, Djokovic saying he believed that he had been in control of the match. Nadal must remember it too – he reacted with amused incredulity at the time – and will probably be keen to leave no doubt in Djokovic’s mind about who’s in control this time.

Djokovic had an easy time against an injured Murray in the semifinal and should be rested and ready despite having a 4:30 pm start yesterday while Nadal began at 12:00 pm.

Djokovic’s ground game is impressive – he has a very good forehand and can also end with his backhand when he gets to step in on that side, but he’ll have to hit would-be winners time and time again with Nadal scrambling around on the other side. The Serb says he also wants to be aggressive and finish more points at net, but he’ll have to be in a very strong position when he comes in against Nadal, who hit some fearsome passing shots in his semifinal with Andy Roddick.

If Nadal turns up passive tomorrow, sending his balls short and being content to stand far behind the baseline, Djokovic can knock him off with a good performance from his end. But if Nadal can maintain the level he’s shown most of this week, he’s the firm favorite.

Winner: Nadal