Chennai, Sep 18 (NationPress) Sri Lankan N. Thangaraja surged to the top of the leaderboard during the third round, known as the 'moving day', at the Chennai Open 2025, a prestigious INR 1 crore event taking place at the Cosmo TNGF Golf Course on Thursday by equaling the tournament low of nine-under 63.

Thangaraja (69-66-63), who was four shots behind the leader at the halfway mark, made significant progress on day three, climbing three positions to secure a one-shot lead at 18-under 198.

A five-time winner on the PGTI, Thangaraja, who claimed his latest title earlier this year, is now reigniting his rivalry with second-placed Manu Gandas. Three years ago, Gandas came from behind on the final day to defeat Thangaraja at the same venue during the Chennai Open.

Gurugram’s Manu Gandas (66-68-65) delivered a flawless 65 to elevate himself to second place at 17-under 199. Shaurya Bhattacharya (67-65-69) from Delhi fell to third place at 15-under 201 after a 69 on day three.

Chandigarh’s Akshay Sharma, the overnight leader by one shot, slipped to a tie for fourth place at 14-under 202 following a round of 71. He was joined in joint fourth by Honey Baisoya (66).

The day began with the completion of the unfinished second round, with the cut set at one-over 145, allowing fifty-seven professionals to progress. Round three commenced shortly after at 9:10 am local time.

The 44-year-old Colombo resident N. Thangaraja showcased an impressive 63 on Day Three, matching the tournament's lowest score, previously set by Akshay Sharma in round one and Anant Singh Ahlawat in round two.

Thangaraja’s round included an eagle on the 16th, eight birdies, and a single bogey. His precision with irons and wedges was evident, as he had four easy tap-ins—one for eagle and three for birdies. His longest putt was a remarkable 20-foot birdie on the fifth.

Thangaraja remarked, “I was precise with my approach and wedge shots today. I had some putting struggles in the first two rounds, but today my game was more solid, as I avoided long putts.”

“I feel at home on this course, having performed well here previously. Competing against Manu in the leader group again after three years adds excitement. I’m optimistic about my game, especially after achieving top-15 finishes in my last four events.”

Searching for his ninth PGTI title and his first victory in over a year and a half, Manu Gandas proved his competitiveness with seven birdies on Thursday.