South defeated at Indian Wells as Murray jets out

BRITISH number two Melanie South lost in straight sets during qualifying for this week's BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells.

DISAPPOINTED: Melanie South failed to progress through the first round of qualifying at Indian Wells (Getty Images)

South lost 6-3, 7-6 in 99 minutes against American Varvara Lepchenko, a player ranked 17 places below her in the world rankings.

British number one Anne Keothavong is automatically through to the main draw and will learn her first round opponent on Monday.

Meanwhile Andy Murray has confirmed he will travel to Indian Wells to play in the Masters Series event that runs alongside the women's championship.

Murray missed Great Britain's weekend Davis Cup defeat with a viral complaint.

The 21-year-old Scot told his website: "I'm headed off to the States. Not 100% yet, but feeling better for sure."

The men's tournament does not begin until later this week with Murray playing on either Thursday or Friday, depending on the draw.