British number one Johanna Konta reached the final of the Nature Valley Open in Nottingham for the second year in a row after a straight-set win over Donna Vekic.

Konta beat the defending champion from Croatia 6-2 6-3 in a match delayed for over an hour because of rain.

She will face top seed Ashleigh Barty from Australia in Sunday’s final.

Barty defeated Japanese third seed Naomi Osaka 6-3 6-4 in the opening semi-final.

Konta had looked strong early on in the blustery conditions against Vekic with the Croat requiring treatment on a leg injury at the end of the first set.

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Heavy rain then started to fall, forcing the players off court.

On the resumption, Konta broke to go 2-1 up in the second set but although an increasingly emotional Vekic broke back, the Briton broke again for a 4-3 lead.

With the Vekic forehand becoming more erratic, Konta held on for the win.

“It was challenging for both of us with the rain delay but I am happy to have battled through,” said Konta.

“Ash is a very crafty and talented player, and likes this surface. She has improved since last year and it will be a tough match for me.”

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