How Did Local Star Akshay Sharma Join Manu Gandas in the Clubhouse Lead on Day Two of the Trident Open?
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Synopsis
In an exciting display of skill at the inaugural Trident Open, local golfer Akshay Sharma ties with Manu Gandas for the clubhouse lead after a solid performance. As the competition heats up, the unfinished second round adds to the suspense. Who will emerge victorious on this challenging course? Stay tuned!
Key Takeaways
- Akshay Sharma ties for clubhouse lead with Manu Gandas.
- Second round interrupted due to fading light.
- Md Somrat Sikdar remains a strong contender.
- Trident Group supports the tournament, enhancing local golf.
- Cut line expected at one-over 148.
Chandigarh, Nov 12 (NationPress) Local talent Akshay Sharma posted a commendable two-under 70 to share the clubhouse lead with Manu Gandas on the second day of the inaugural Trident Open, a prestigious INR 1 crore tournament, taking place at the Chandigarh Golf Club on Wednesday. Akshay (69-70) has a cumulative score of five-under 139 after 36 holes, tying with Manu (66-73).
The second round was interrupted on Wednesday due to diminishing daylight, halting play at 5:40 pm local time. Out of 123 competitors, seven have yet to complete their second round, with play set to resume at 6:50 am on Thursday.
Md Somrat Sikdar from Bangladesh, one of the seven players still on the course, was at six-under after 16 holes when play was suspended, placing him in contention for the lead when action resumes Thursday morning.
This tournament is backed by the Trident Group, an influential Indian business conglomerate led by the dynamic Rajinder Gupta, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) and Chairman. Based in Ludhiana, Punjab, Trident stands as a leading force in home textiles both in India and internationally.
Former India No. 1 junior golfer Shubham Jaglan, who is making his PGTI debut this week after a year in the United States, is tied for third in the clubhouse with a total of four-under 140, alongside Bangladesh’s Badal Hossain, Mohd Azhar, Shamim Khan, Shaurya Bhattacharya, and Manoj S. Local favorite and PGTI Ranking leader Yuvraj Sandhu rebounded strongly on day two, shooting a 69 to bring his total to three-under 141.
As it stands, the cut line is projected to be at one-over 148 after round two.
The 35-year-old Akshay Sharma, a three-time professional titleholder, is eager to secure his first victory on his home course. He kicked off the day effectively, scoring tap-in birdies on the second and third holes, and added another birdie on the 11th.
Currently ranked 20th on the PGTI Order of Merit with five top-10 finishes this season, including a runner-up finish, Akshay's only bogey of the day came on the 13th hole.
“I’m very happy with today’s performance as two-under is a solid score given the current conditions. The course is challenging, with fast greens and tough pin placements. I hit close shots all day but had some putting difficulties,” Akshay Sharma remarked.
“Adapting to the chilly morning and evening conditions is also a challenge. I believe 12-under could be a winning score here, which is my target for the week. Winning at my home course is something I’ve yet to achieve,” he added.
Manu Gandas, the first-round leader, stayed competitive despite his 73 on day two. Md Somrat Sikdar was two-under through 16 holes on day two, showcasing impressive wedge-play and sinking a 30-foot putt before play was halted.
Point of View
The Trident Open showcases not only the rising talents in Indian golf but also emphasizes the importance of local tournaments in nurturing homegrown players. With seasoned competitors like Akshay Sharma striving for victory, the future of Indian golf looks promising. The engagement from sponsors like the Trident Group further underscores the growing interest in this sport.
NationPress
13/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Trident Open?
The Trident Open is an inaugural golf tournament with a prize purse of INR 1 crore, held at the Chandigarh Golf Club.
Who are the leading players in the tournament?
Local golfer Akshay Sharma and Manu Gandas are currently tied for the clubhouse lead.
When will the second round of the tournament resume?
Play will resume at 6:50 am on Thursday.
What is the significance of the Trident Group's sponsorship?
The Trident Group’s sponsorship highlights the increasing support for golf in India, fostering local talent.
What are the current standings in the tournament?
As of now, Akshay Sharma and Manu Gandas lead the tournament, with several players still completing their second rounds.
