Blake stuns Nadal to set up Federer showdown

INDIAN WELLS, Mar 19 (Reuters) American James Blake shocked world number two Rafael Nadal of Spain 7-5 6-3 to earn himself a place in the Pacific Life Open finalagainst Roger Federer.

Blake, winner in Las Vegas two weeks ago, negated the 19-year-old Spaniard's speed and retrieving ability with huge forehands, opportunistic net rushes and superb returning yesterday.

Blake broke Nadal three times during the match and nailed 21 winners to 17 from the Spaniard.

The American, who has won four titles since last August, is guaranteed to go to a career high number nine in the rankings and will reach number seven if he upsets Federer.

World number one Federer strolled into the final after a 6-2 6-3 victory over Thailand's Paradorn Srichaphan.

The 24-year-old Swiss stands at 17-1 for 2006, his sole loss to coming to Nadal in the Dubai final earlier this month.

REUTERS PM VC0940