Singapore, Sept 18: Sixteen teams, including from India, go into battle at the Nations Cup Golf here today where a top-four finish will earn them a shot at the World Cup later this year. India, Myanmar, Taiwan, Malaysia, Philippines and hosts Singapore start as early contenders at Laguna National Golf and country Club's Classic Course but the chase for World Cup places is expected to be a race to the finish line. Gaurav Ghei and Digvijay Singh will fly India's flag where they will aim to extend the country's recent good fortunes on the golf scene. On Sunday, Jyoti Randhawa, last year's Asian PGA Tour number one, became the first Indian to win on the Japan Golf tour following a two-stroke victory at the Suntory Open. Ghei is fired up this week as he featured at the 1997 World Cup which was also staged at Kiawah island. "I'm really excited about this event. I think we've got a chance. Digvijay is playing well right now and I'm hitting the ball pretty good," said Ghei.
"It's going to be exciting because of the format," said Myanmar's veteran Kyi Hla Han, who is aiming for a fourth World Cup appearance.
"As we're playing fourball and foursomes on alternate days, it is important to have a solid team partnership. I've always looked forward to the Nations Cup as I believe it's an opportunity for Asian teams to get into the World Cup and test our game against the world's best players."

While the Nations Cup, which sees teams from Asia, Europe and Africa competing this week, does not offer prize money, qualifying for the World Cup at Kiawah island, United States in November is enticing.

Bureau Report