Powerful pair Cibulkova and Sabalenka could serve up a cracker

WTA Wuhan Open
BT Sport 1, from 4am Thursday

Dominika Cibulkova and Aryna Sabalenka have claimed some notable scalps to book their place in the quarter-finals of the Wuhan Open and the powerful duo are expected to leave nothing behind on court as they bid to tee up a title tilt.

Cibulkova has made light work of world number one Simona Halep and rising Russian Daria Kasatkina in straight sets, while Sabalenka has bulldozed her way past the resurgent Carla Suarez Navarro and sixth seed Elina Svitolina.

Their giantkilling heroics mean Ashleigh Barty remains the only seed in the top half of the draw and each will see this as a massive opportunity to get their hands on some silverware.

However, on current form there's little to separate the pair and their similar styles could ensure spectators are treated to a cracker.

Cibulkova is more experienced, which could stand her in good stead, but both have a quick, aggressive approach and long rallies may be the order of the day.

Three of Sabalenka's last five matches have gone the distance and this clash could follow suit.

Home hope Qiang Wang, fresh from winning in Guanghzou, has continued her fine form in Wuhan. However, she should expect a tougher test from Monica Puig, who dumped out Caroline Wozniacki in the previous round.

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