Jakarta: India's Gaganjeet Bhullar struck again on Indonesian soil yesterday, firing a sizzling bogey-free eight-under-par 63 for the first-round lead in the US$1.5 million Indonesian Masters.
Gaganjeet Bhullar hits a shot in the first round of the Indonesian Masters. afp PAUL LAKATOS
Bhullar was two shots ahead of second-placed Phachara Khongwatmai of Thailand, American Paul Peterson and Honey Baisoya of India, all in with 65s at the par-71 Royale Jakarta Golf Club.
American Patrick Reed, Canada's Richard T Lee, Australians Wade Ormsby and Travis Smyth besides Thai players Jazz Janewattananond, the winner here in 2019, and Gunn Charoenkul were next best placed following 66s -- in the final International Series event of the season.
Bhullar is the most successful player from his country on the Asian Tour with 10 victories, but he is winless this year and searching for a solution.
"The whole year I have been feeling strong mentally and physically," said the Indian. "Thought I have been playing well but not really delivering. This is golf. I am sure my subconscious mind will figure it out."
Starting on hole 10 Bhullar made three birdies going out and five on the back, including the last two.
Defending champion Sarit Suwannarut from Thailand returned a 74, as did American Andy Ogletree, who wrapped up the International Series Order of Merit title at the Hong Kong Open last Sunday to secure his place on next year's LIV Golf League.
Play was stopped for the day at 5.05pm local time due to inclement weather. Eighteen players will return to complete their rounds this morning.