Sharapova sets up Azarenka clash

World number two Maria Sharapova got off to a successful start at the Indian Wells hardcourt tournament on Saturday, easing past Yanina Wickmayer 6-1, 7-5 on centre court.

The win sets up a mouth-watering match with former champion Victoria Azarenka, who advanced to the third round by beating Kirsten Flipkens 6-2, 6-4 earlier in the day.

Both Sharapova and Azarenka are former world number ones and former Indian Wells champions.

The early marquee clash was made possible by Azarenka´s drop in ranking, due to a foot problem that has bothered her for the past year.

It will be the 14th meeting between the two Grand Slam champions, with Azarenka holding a 7-6 edge. Sharapova won their last contest at the 2013 French Open semi-finals.

"I think it will be a good challenge for both of us," Sharapova said. "We have had some really good matches in the past, even though we haven´t played against each other in a while."

Sharapova, who is seeking to become the first three-time women´s champion at Indian Wells, lost to Serena Williams in the final of the Australian Open in January.