Andy Murray bounces back to storm past Richard Gasquet

The world No.2 cut a frustrated figure in the opening two sets, but still managed to roar back and come through 5-7 7-6(3) 6-0 6-2.

Murray will contest a spot in the Roland Garros final with defending champion Stan Wawrinka, who tore through his last eight encounter with Albert Ramos-Vinolas in straight sets.

"It was a very tough match and I’m glad to get through," Murray said on court afterwards.

The Brit’s progress in Paris has been blighted by early lapses, and there were fears another marathon adventure was on the cards after a mini-meltdown saw him surrender the opening set from 5-2 ahead.

And an eerily similar scenario unfolded in the second, with Murray throwing away his advantage when serving for the set. But instead of capitulating, he recovered to force a tie-break in which he reeled off six straight points to take it 7-3.

That appeared to end Gasquet’s resistance, with the third and fourth sets one-sided affairs as Murray wrapped up victory for the loss of just two more games.

His next task: oust Wawrinka, who is yet to drop a set and in ominously impressive form.