Murray lands title

The result - and Murray's fine overall performance in the competition - goes some way to vindicating his decision to appear in the tournament while opting to sit out Great Britain's ultimately ill-fated Davis Cup assignment in Argentina due to concerns over a knee injury.

That decision earned him some critical comments from brother Jamie but a clinical showing against Ancic, in a match which lasted an hour and three quarters, means he now has two titles this year following his success in the Qatar Open.

"It's great - to have the confidence of winning two tournaments and beating some really tough players here and in Doha," said Murray, who bounced back after suffering a first-round loss to eventual finalist Jo-Wilfried Tsonga at the Australian Open.

"I think a lot was made of me not doing so well in the Australian Open. But I have come back well from it and confidence is high, so that can only help."

Ancic admitted he had been outplayed by Murray.

"It was a great level of play," Ancic said. "Andy played very well and very solid. I think he didn't do a single unforced error. I think he showed why he is already one of the best players on the tour."