Brilliant Lahiri grabs clubhouse lead in style

Three-time Asian Tour winner Anirban Lahiri put up a class act on the opening day of the Omega European Masters golf tournament when he fired an eight-under 63 to grab the clubhouse lead here on Thursday.

Lahiri’s commanding round was made even more remarkable as he is still nursing a twisted knee and was playing through the pain barrier at the $2.8 million showpiece event.

“I had a really a bad fall and twisted my right knee about four weeks ago. I’ve a history with my knee as I tore my ACL when I was 15 so it was tough,” said Lahiri.  “I didn’t hit balls for 15 days. Monday was probably my fourth round in a month. I came in with no expectations and just wanted to enjoy my golf.”  Lahiri also took a share of the first round clubhouse lead last year but he missed the cut after a torrid time dealing with the weather.