Rafael Nadal eases into Monte Carlo Masters quarter-finals

Rafael Nadal has eased into the quarter-finals of the Monte Carlo Masters following a straight-sets victory over Mikhail Kukushkin.

It took the world number two just 28 minutes to take the first set as he broke the Kazakhstani three times to win 6-1.

It was equally simple for the defending champion in the second as he overpowered his opponent to take two breaks of serve.

Nadal was then left to serve out the match, which he did 6-1.

The Spaniard will face either Nicolas Almagro or Stanislas Warinka in the next round.