Shenzhen, Guangdong, China, 27 September 2016 | tennis.com.au

Australian Andrew Whittington will face No.3 Richard Gasquet in the second round of the Shenzhen Open after a stunning first round victory.

Whittington saved four match points to beat fellow qualifier Luca Vanni of Italy, sealing a 2-6 7-6(10) 6-2 win in two hours and 20 minutes.

Having won two matches in qualifying to reach the main draw, Whittington is now on a three-match winning streak.

It was his first appearance in the main draw at an ATP event, and proved an impressive debut.

He joins compatriot Bernard Tomic, the fourth seed, in the second round.

The Victorian began the season ranked No.592 but has risen steadily in the ensuing months thanks to six ITF Futures titles a several strong results at ATP Challenger level.