Murray win sets up clash with Edmund

TENNIS: Andy Murray made a winning return in his first match for seven months with victory over Liam Broady in the Battle of the Brits tournament.

The three-time grand-slam champion had not played since a Davis Cup clash in November due to a bruised thigh bone, but clinched a 6-2 ,6-2 triumph in Roehampton.

He did not show too much rustiness in the Tim Henman Group fixture in the all-British tournament - hosted by his brother Jamie - at the National Tennis Centre.

Murray told Amazon Prime: “It was OK. I served pretty well, I thought I served well throughout the match.”

Meanwhile, British number two Kyle Edmund saw off the challenge of James Ward.

The 25-year-old from Beverley looked solid and consistent as he dispatched his compatriot 6-1, 6-4 in his opening match of the round-robin tournament.

Victory sets up a showdown with Murray, who is anticipating a tough test.

“Kyle played well today, he is fit and hitting a big ball so I’ll be surprised if I manage to come through that one,” the Scotsman added.

“I will try to rest up and hopefully improve a little bit tomorrow. If I serve like I did today and hit the ball a little bit cleaner from the back of the court I will give myself some chances, but it will be tough.”

Tuesday also saw Dan Evans demonstrate why he is British number one with a routine victory over opponent Jay Clarke.

The 6-3, 6-1 win for the 30-year-old showed why many are tipping him to triumph at the tournament.

But Evans said: “Andy Murray is the favourite.

“It felt a bit strange to be back playing and I mistimed a few balls, but it is good to be out here and getting some matches in.

“It’s obviously been a terrible time so it’s good to put some tennis back on the TV for the people tuning in.”