Mar 08, 2017: Neither Anirban Lahiri, nor SSP Chawrasia have finished outside Top-5 in the last four editions of the Hero Indian Open. Between the two, they have won the title three times.
Lahiri won it first in 2015. He was also second in 2013 and 2016 and he was fifth in 2012 and 2015. Much before that, he was T-3 in 2009, when the event was held at the DLF Golf and Country Club, but at the old layout.
Chawrasia was second in 2013 and 2015 and then won it in 2016 and 2017. He was also second in 1999 and 2006. In addition, he has been in Top-10 numerous times. Surely an amazing record.
It might rank as one of the biggest rivalries in the history of the tournament, but they are two best friends. They have played together on Indian, Asian and the European Tours.
“Both of us always look forward to this event. We’ve done well here. (But) I think all eyes are going to be on SSP as well as he’s played the last couple of years. Having said that, I must also add, that this is the best Indian field we’ve ever had. Most in-form Indian players are here. And with Shubhankar playing the way he is and Khalin (Joshi) recently having a top 10 in Malaysia, plus Shiv Kapur with three wins in 2017, it is going to be a great week”, said Lahiri.
On his relationship with Chawrasia, Lahiri said, “With SSP it has been a great relationship over the last few years. Once we step on that first tee we want to win. We want to beat everyone in the field, including our friends, because that is what competitive golf is about. We have been on so many teams together including the Olympics. I’ve now been a pro for ten years and half of what he’s been pro! You always feed off positive energy. SSP is very positive. He’s always looked at every situation in a very good way. I think it’s just good energy. We enjoy playing with each other and we enjoy competing.”
And what does Chawrasia have to say about the relationship? The two-time defending champion said, “I’ve learned so many things with him to be honest. We have played together a lot. Whenever we get a chance to practice together we always do. It’s always good fun, and I hope the next two days will be the same.
Asian Tour Release
