Rafael Nadal has not won a hard court title in two years and has not defeated Novak Djokovic in 18 months but the world No. 5 has a chance to end both droughts on Saturday when he squares off with his nemesis in the Qatar Open final.

He thus moves ahead in his head-to-head with Nadal to 24-23 and also looks in prime condition to win the Australian Open, which serves off next week. "This trophy will hold a special place in my heart as this reminds me of someone closer, who is not with me anymore". Djokovic was the ascendant but, just as Nadal had done in Melbourne, failed to hammer home a 4-2 final-set advantage.

World number one Djokovic progressed through to Saturday's final after overcoming Tomas Berdych in a bruising encounter, 6-3, 7-6 (7/3).

The top seeded pair took just an hour and 10 minutes to beat German wild card pair of Angelique Kerber, who lost the women's singles final earlier in the day to Victoria Azarenka of Belarus, and Andrea Petkovic 7-5, 6-1 at the Pat Rafter Arena. Later, post the match too Nadal zestfully said, "Well, I found a new coach too today".

Nadal won 100 percent of his first service points in the opening set, 89 percent overall, and allowed only one break point, which he held.

"It gives me a lot of confidence and satisfaction, particularly against Rafa".

The two-time Australian Open champion steadily improved in each round in Brisbane and showed in the final she will be a serious contender in Melbourne.

And while his achievements in 2015 will take some topping, the manner of Djokovic's latest success suggests he is in no mood to let his level drop this year.

Nadal, meanwhile, won only 48% of points on his own first serve and made nine winning returns compared to 30 from Djokovic.

"I did a few good things and I'm happy with the victory", Nadal commented.

Like many others, though, he has struggled against the very best in the world (0-4 combined against Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray, and Rafael Nadal).

"To be back in a final is always a great feeling, especially the first week of the season", said the Spaniard. How can I go against Djokovic?

The Serb and the Spaniard wasted no time in renewing their rivalry in 2016, but Djokovic cruised from the start.

This marked Djokovic's 16th straight final - and 12th title - since he lost in the Qatar Open quarterfinals previous year. "That's where I'm hoping I can continue this run and this great level of performance".