SSP Chawrasia gains a one shot lead

Report by Anand Datla

February 21, 2015: An understated yet determined SSP Chawrasia made the best of his familiarity with the course at the Delhi Golf Club to gain a one shot lead at the end of the second round of the Hero Indian Open 2015. Under perfect conditions for golf, amidst a mild breeze and the music of chirping birds, Chawrasia played with the calm of a seasoned monk to impose himself over the field. The diminutive golfer produced a blemishless effort that contained four birdies – one on the front and three on his way back – to go 10-under through 36 holes. Defending champion Siddikur Rahman was also showing great poise and determination as he continued his quest to hold on to his crown. The Bangladeshi shot a 68 to ensure he was right in the mix, just one behind the leader.

“I am delighted to have finally managed a bogey free round, perhaps the first of my career, at a course that I have played so often,” said Chawrasia to Golfing Indian. “I will look to continue playing the same way to try and contend over the weekend.”

“Once I am on the course, I compete with the course and not my opponent,” added the 204th ranked Indian. “So tomorrow will be the same. Whether I play with Siddikur or anyone else this is how I play.”

The day also belonged to Anirban Lahiri. The 37th ranked golfer put the disappointment of a tepid first round, quickly behind him to produce the best effort of the second round. Anirban displayed great ambition and purpose as he went on the attack to redeem his chances with a brilliant 65 in the second round. His round contained an impressive nine birdies, but he was also dented by the three bogeys that tarnished his otherwise dominant effort.

Arjun Atwal promised to contend this week, when one spoke with him on Monday during the India Golf Awards. He is proving true to his word, without having to do too much fanciful. Atwal is lying in T13 having produced a second straight 70 on Friday. The 400th ranked Indian will need something special though and very soon to break into serious contention for Sunday honours.

Veteran Jeev Milka Singh was determined to make a mark this week. One could see the golfer go through his putting motions all day, during his time on the course and at the end of the round. “I have been struggling with my short game,” admitted the candid man. “I feel that I am hitting the ball well, so if the putting improves I see myself having a good week.”

Singh came back from the dead, virtually. He was at four over and staring at the knife with only four holes left to play. But producing some immaculate shots on the final stretch, Singh produced birdies at the 16th and 18th to make the weekend right on the edge of the cut.

Overall 16 Indians made the weekend, with the cut falling at two over – based on the top 65 and ties. Among those who were unlucky to miss out were Khalin Joshi and Rahil Gangjee. Gaganjeet Bhullar never quite recovered from the 77 in the first round as he made an exit with his score reading 7-over 149.