Sharapova rules Russian battle at Wimbledon

Defending champion Maria Sharapova of Russia beat compatriot Nadia Petrova in straight sets to reach the semi-final of Wimbledon today.

In her toughest test so far to remain on course for a successful defence of her Wimbledon title, the number two seed overcame the number 10 seed 7-6 (8-6) 6-3.