Shamim clinches BILT Open crown

Shamim Khan clinched the BILT Open title after piping Rashid Khan in an enthralling play-off at the Delhi Golf course here on Saturday.

The 34-year-old Shamim staved off a fierce challenge from Rashid, who almost turned the tables on the overnight leader after finishing with a four-day total of 14-under 274 in regulation, courtesy a final round of two-under 70.

Shamim (64-72-64-74), who had a four-stroke lead going into the final round, carded two-over 74 but still had enjoyed a one-stoke lead till the 17th hole.

However, Rashid knocked down a birdie at the 18th hole to push the contest into the play-off.

The match was decided in the second play-off after the first one also ended on an even-knell.

Just like the rest of the tournament, the play-off also turned into a see-saw battle filled with many anxious moments.

In the first play off, Rashid found the bushes on the right but resurrected his campaign with a brilliant 20-feet birdie putt. Shamim, too, birdied the 18th hole as they moved into the second play-off.

In the second play-off, Shamim rode on his experience to pick up an eight feet birdie putt after Rashid missed a 10-footer for birdie.

This is Shamim’s eighth professional win overall and third this season. He was richer by Rs 16,16,500.

Manav Jaini (69-71-68-71), finished third at nine-under-279, while Mithun Perera of Sri Lanka and Abhinav Lohan were a further stroke back in tied at fourth place. Former Asian Tour number one Jyoti Randhawa grabbed a share of ninth position at four-under-284.