British number two Dan Evans impressed on his return from injury by beating Australian Rinky Hijikata in straight sets at the Adelaide International.

Competing for the first time since tearing his calf at the Vienna Open in October, he won 6-3 6-4 to set up a last-16 match against Alexander Bublik.

At the Australian Open, Britons Billy Harris and Ryan Peniston progressed to the second qualifying round.

But Lily Miyazaki was beaten on the first day of action in Melbourne.

Evans, 33, made a fast start under the Centre Court lights in Adelaide, forcing three break points in Hijikata’s opening service game before breaking to 15 for a 3-1 lead.

The fleet-footed world number 40 produced several moments of brilliance and, although unable to make the most of five more break points two games later, he was untroubled in serving out a dominant first set.

Hijikata provided sterner resistance in the second but Evans took full advantage when the 22-year-old wildcard’s level dropped in the ninth game – allowing him to serve out a satisfying victory.

“I was a little tired – it’s my first match of the year – and it was important to keep focused,” said Evans, who reached a career-high rank of 21 after winning the biggest title of his career at the Citi Open in Washington last August.

“It was a very good match to be part of and the crowd were very fair as well.”

On his recovery from injury, he added: “It was challenging to get injured at the end of last year. It took a while to heal and I’m still looking after it. I’m still a little nervous but it feels all right.”