Doha SF: Scrappers rule

The last 4 in Doha cannot be described as power hitters. Perhaps the era of power-hitting is over? This shows how much the court conditions affects the outcome. Doha's cool and heavy conditions favour the defensive players, hence the final 4.

Jelena Jankovic vs. Angelique Kerber

Jankovic won their last encounter in Brisbane just a month ago. She will be the favourite to come through to her first Premier final. Jankovic's dismissal of Kvitova was impressive, but it was also due to the nonchalant hit or miss attitude from the Czech. Against the left-handed Kerber, she's going to have to work harder for her points. The advantage for Jelena is that Kerber's crosscourt forehand goes to her strength, her backhand. A lot of long rallies are expected, but I believe Jankovic will win to reach her first Premier final since Beijing.

Pick: Jankovic in 3 sets

Simona Halep vs. Agnieszka Radwanska

 

Take a look at these 2 player's results and you can see one similarity, they tend to lose to powerhitters who had their day. Pitch both of them together, you're guaranteed a closely contested match with lots of court coverage. These 2 girls do not possess the hardest serves or groundstrokes, but their tenacious game will make for good entertainment. Halep won their last encounter in Rome, so Radwanska will be seeking revenge. The Pole has been unchallenged in all her matches so far, but I expect Halep to give her a run for her money. The Romanian was stellar in destroying Errani, maybe she can cause another surprise here.

Pick: Halep in 3 sets