Murray’s epic late finish defended by Australian Open boss

Australian Open chief Craig Tiley insisted on Friday there was “no need” to alter scheduling at the tournament despite stinging criticism after the second latest match finish at a Grand Slam. Veteran Andy Murray battled through a five-set epic against home hope Thanasi Kokkinakis which ended at 4.05am on Friday to reach the third round, calling the early hours conclusion “a bit of a farce”. In front of a raucous but weary Margaret Court Arena in Melbourne, Murray finally prevailed 4-6, 6-7 (4/7), 7-6 (7/5), 6-3, 7-5.