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Australian Open 2019: Katie Boulter wins, Heather Watson & Harriet Dart lose in first round

Britain's Katie Boulter marked her Australian Open debut with a thrilling victory over Ekaterina Makarova to reach the second round.

But compatriots Heather Watson and Harriet Dart suffered heavy defeats.

Helped by her huge forehands, Boulter held her nerve to beat 2015 semi-finalist Makarova 6-0 4-6 7-6 (10-6).

Qualifier Dart was outclassed 6-0 6-0 by five-time Grand Slam champion Maria Sharapova and Watson lost 6-1 6-2 to Croatian 31st seed Petra Martic.

Another four Britons are in action on the opening day in Melbourne, including Andy Murray.

More to follow.