Analysis for Gabashvili-Cruciat (ATP Bucharest)

Head-to-head record 0:0

Teimuraz Gabashvili from Russia will play Adrian Cruciat in the second round at Bucharest open. As you might have noticed, we don’t like Gabashvili´s style of play and often take the opportunity to advice against him. We saw him several times and must say we have never been impressed by his performance. He lacks the variety of shots and even if his serve is solid enough, he often struggles against creative clay courters who like to change the rhythm of play. His playing style is simple – he doesn’t like too long rallies and tries to hit the winning forehand as soon as possible. His technique is poor and we are not sure about his mental condition. Bearing in mind that he is going to play home player who defeated Volandri in the first round, it could be really tough for him today. Well, his opponent Adrian Cruciat is not a typical clay court player but he is a defensive baseliner and should prevail in the long rallies from the baseline. He is a big fighter and even if his latest results weren´t great though, we believe in his fighting spirit. He will be pushed forward by the home crowd and we think that his odds should not exceed 2.6.