Jeev, Bhullar spearhead Indian challenge in Avantha Masters

Gurgaon: Battle-hardened Jeev Milkha Singh and in-form Gaganjeet Bhullar will spearhead the strong Indian

challenge in the USD 2.1 million Avantha Masters golf tournament which tees off here on Thursday. With Europe`s creme de la creme giving the tri-sanctioned event a miss because of lack of breathing space between this event and next week`s WGC-Accenture Matchplay in Arizona, the onus of continental representation is now on the likes of Darren Clarke, Richie Ramsay and David Howell. Asian Tour stalwarts like Thaworn Wiratchant and regular visitors like Liang Wen-chong, Prayad Marksaeng, Chapchai Nirat and Mardan Mamat would fancy their chance as well but the Indians would be justified in believing that they would have the last laugh on Sunday. At least nine Indians would be in the fray who know what it takes to win on the Asian Tour and then there would be youngsters like Himmat Rai and Anirban Lahiri, who would hope to conjure up something special over the next four days for their maiden victory. The Indian contingent would include three former Asian number ones and the `Big Three` of Indian golf -- Jeev, Jyoti Randhawa and Arjun Atwal. Besides, the field would also include Asian Tour winners Shiv Kapur, C Muniyappa, Bhullar, SSP Chowrasia, Gaurav Ghei and Rahil Gangjee. Except US, Jeev has had success everywhere he played but his home record is not exactly spectacular, something he plans to set right this weekend. "I have not done too well at home but I`m working together with my coach this week and feeling good about my form. It`s always nice to win at home and I`ll go out there and do my best. Let`s see how it goes," said Jeev. Bhullar, on his part, has been in sensational form since the second half last year. The Kapurthala-pro qualified for the British Open last year and then went on to win his maiden Asian Tour title in the Indonesia President Invitational. Already eyeing Europe, Bhullar got off to a perfect start in the new year, firing a sizzling eight-under 64 in the final round for his come-from-behind victory in the Asian Tour International in Bangkok on Sunday. All eyes will be on the strapping professional as he tees off at the DLF Golf and Country Club tomorrow. "I`m looking forward it. It`s a big event. I love the DLF course as I`ve won there twice. Going back playing in front of the home crowd will give me a great sense of achievement," said the youngster. Eight-time Asian Tour winner Randhawa has not been in the best of form in recent times but his grasp of the course and vast experience would stand him in good stead. Likewise, Atwal would also hope to end his title drought to put behind the shoulder injury that blighted his career in recent times. Among others, Muniyappa won his maiden Asian Tour title here last year and the caddie-turned-pro is eager to have another shot at glory. PTI