Updates from the conclusion of the opening round from Melbourne ParkAsh Barty lifts spirits after rough day for home playersAny thoughts? Email or tweet @JPHowcroft 1.03am GMT
Second set: Pliskova* 6-1 2-2 Mladenovic (*denotes server): Mladenovic is grinding her way into this contest after a slow start, chasing every ball and forcing Pliskova to hit winners. The second seed is a tour-leading server, and has been for some time, but slips to deuce after lobbing a second serve right in the slot for her opponent to run around and slam a forehand down the line.
Mladenovic ups the ante one point later, slapping a forehand crosscourt for consecutive clean return winners. She fails to convert though, missing her fourth break point of the match. 12.53am GMT
Over to Rod Laver Arena now for some close attention on second seed, and genuine title contender, Karolina Pliskova. The Czech scorched the first set 6-1 against Kristina Mladenovic, the star of France’s recent Fed Cup triumph. The Frenchwoman won all three matches against Australia, including victory over Ash Barty.
We’re on serve at 1-1 in the second set.