Ashok wins individual strokeplay

Sri Lanka have added a new dimension of interest to the third SAARC golf championship with a brilliant fight back after their lukewarm showing on the opening day. The Islanders stated yesterday that they were aiming for under-par scores from all their players in the second strokeplay round. The proof of their commitment towards their goal was apparent when two of their players, Chandradasa and Rohana, carded two-under 70 and one-under 71 respectively. The performance by the Islanders has made tomorrow’s match-play final that much more interesting. Having acclimatised themselves to the prevalent course and weather conditions, the Lankans will be eager as ever to get on to the tee tomorrow.

India, too, had reason to celebrate as 19-year-old Ashok Kumar emerged the individual strokeplay winner for the second year running. Ashok’s level-par 72 today combined with his two-under 70 of the first round was enough to hand him the title. Gangjee was the victim of just three bad tee-shots on his back-nine which were enough to lose him four strokes. However, his three-over 75 does not mirror the high standard of golf he is currently playing, so there is really nothing for the Indian camp to worry about.

The line-up for the first final caused few raised eyebrows as it was predicted at the very start that India and Sri Lanka were the two teams that stood the best chance of clashing for the title on Sunday. As I have mentioned earlier, match play is a different cup of tea altogether. Attacking golf compared to the precentage play required in the strokeplay version of the game will be the order of the day when thte two teams tee off tomorrow.

Sri Lanka are a very dangerous side. Rohana, Lalith and Chandradasa are quality golfers and mentally very strong individuals. India are also a formidable side. On current form, they have a slight edge over their opponents, but match play golf is more of a mental battle.