Four round of 32 matches are scheduled for Day 3 in Ningbo. Mirra Andreeva, who is trying to qualify for the WTA Finals, will continue her campaign against the home favorite Lin Zhu. It promises to be a fascinating day of action, but which players do you think will win?

WTA Ningbo Day 3 Predictions
Belinda Bencic vs Yuliia Starodubtseva

Head-to-head: First meeting

Both players won comfortably in the opening round. Starodubtseva will try to rush her higher-ranked opponent by playing aggressively and stepping in. Olympic Gold Medalist Bencic is among the best at taking the ball early, especially with her backhand. She will not be intimidated by Starodubtseva’s style and has a higher ceiling than the Ukrainian.

Prediction: Bencic in 2

Ajla Tomljanovic vs Zeynep Sonmez

Head-to-head: Tomljanovic 1-0 Sonmez

Tomljanovic had a superb victory in the previous round against Clara Tauson. Her level in that match would be good enough to win this contest, but she has struggled for consistency during the past few years. The Australian will attempt to make her clear superiority in the backhand-to-backhand rallies count. Although she sometimes struggles to back up victories, Tomljanovic is predicted to win.

Prediction: Tomljanovic in 3

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Karolina Muchova vs Diana Shnaider

Head-to-head: First meeting

Shnaider’s left-handedness could prove crucial in this fascinating matchup. Although Muchova possesses variety with her backhand, it is the Czech’s weaker wing. Shnaider will try to pin her on that side in cross-court rallies. Muchova’s natural talent and complete game give the 29-year-old a decent chance, but I narrowly favor her younger opponent.

Prediction: Shnaider in 3

Mirra Andreeva vs Lin Zhu

Head-to-head: Andreeva 1-0 Zhu

Andreeva played Zhu a few weeks ago at the China Open in Beijing, comfortably winning 6-2 6-2. The medium-slow conditions in Ningbo are quite similar to those at the China Open. A home crowd could not help Zhu in Beijing, and it probably will not make much difference here. Andreeva is the superior player by far, and the conditions also suit her game more.

Prediction: Andreeva in 2

Main Photo Credit: Mike Frey – Imagn Images