Murray delighted to be mixing things up with Robson

The pair have known each other for just over a year but had never practised, let alone played, together before the mixed teams event in Perth.

Despite that, the No 3 seeds have struck up an instant on-court rapport, having won their opening two ties to top Group B and move to the brink of reaching tomorrow's final.

On each occasion it has been their mixed doubles partnership that has clinched the tie, first in a tight match tie-breaker against Kazakhstan before a more convincing 6-3 6-2 win over Germany.

Great Britain have never reached a final of the Hopman Cup and victory over second seeds Russia today in their final group game will be enough to send them through to meet Spain, who have already qualified from Group A.

"Obviously, we haven't played that much together and it takes a bit of time, but I think we've done pretty well together," Murray said of his partnership with Robson.

"We started both of the mixed matches really well and went through tough patches. Against Germany, we were really good. We only played a few bad games.

"I'm enjoying playing mixed. It has been a lot of fun."

The pair have clearly enjoyed playing alongside each other with Murray even saying during the week he would like to team with Robson at the London 2012 Olympics.

Mixed doubles was officially included into the Olympic programme last month, although Robson joked she may not take up Murray's offer: "I'll have to think about it."

Asked if she might get a better offer, she admitted: "Well, no, probably not."

Murray admits Robson's reluctance to accept his offer is indicative of their sarcastic friendship, which has helped keep him at ease as he begins his preparation for the Australian Open on January 18.

"I've only known her for a year- and-a-half and we haven't said too many nice things to each other," said the 22-year-old Scot with a grin. "I guess that's just how our relationship is. It's good, though."

Turning his focus to the crucial tie with Russia, Murray is determined to win his third singles match at the tournament against big-hitting world No 35 Igor Andreev. "I've never played with him before, but I practised with him the first day we got here," Murray said.

"He plays with a lot of top-spin. He's got a big serve and he's a big strong guy."

Robson has lost both of her singles matches but is looking forward to playing world No 5 Elena Dementieva.

"It will be a really good experience because I've never played someone ranked that high so I've got nothing to lose really."