The Indian golfer had five birdies against two bogeys for his day’s effort. Jeev was five behind Rory McIlroy who shot into a two shot lead. The 21-year-old Northern Irishman McIlroy’s opening round of 65 saw him two clear of back-in-form Sergio Garcia.
Shiv Kapur, the other Indian in the fray shot a one-under 71 and was tied 27th, alongwith Tiger Woods, who had a scratchy day. Woods’ 71 came despite a closing eagle.
Lee Westwood and Martin Kaymer, the World No 1 and 2, shot identical 69 each.
Kaymer, an eight stroke winner in Abu Dhabi three weeks ago and runner-up to Woods on the American’s last appearance in the event in 2008, had the most birdies - six - but also bogeyed the short 15th and had an unfortunate double bogey on the ninth.
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