Rafael Nadal is among the favourites for the BNP Paribas Open and looks in good shape after a convincing victory over Germany’s Rainer Schuettler.

The 23-year-old, back in action since he was forced to retire from the quarter-final of the Australian Open two months ago with a knee injury, was impressive as he saw off  his opponent 6-4 6-4 at Indian Wells.

“It was a good start in the conditions for me and I’m very happy,” a delighted Nadal said afterwards.

“When I was playing in favour of the wind, it was very difficult for me with the backhand because I feel if I only touch the ball, the ball was out. It went too much.

“I feel really well with the forehand, and that’s very important to my game. Maybe I can play better in better conditions with the backhand.”

Nadal must now overcome Mario Ancic after the Croatian beat France’s Julien Benneteau 4-6 7-6 (7/5) 6-3, while Serbian second seed Novak Djokovic and fifth-seed Russian Nikolay Davydenko are also safely through.

Check out all of Betfred’s tennis odds.