How Did Umed Kumar Secure a Three-Shot Lead in Round Two?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Umed Kumar leads the tournament with a score of five-under 135.
- The cut score was set at 10-over 150.
- Local favorite Sanjeev Kumar remains in contention.
- Umed's strong putting has been pivotal in his performance.
- The Lucknow Golf Club offers a unique nine-hole par-70 course.
Lucknow, Sep 10 (NationPress) Umed Kumar from Chandimandir, Haryana, has taken a commanding three-shot lead with a total score of five-under 135 after shooting a two-under 68 in the second round of the PGTI NEXGEN tournament at the Lucknow Golf Club.
Sanjeev Kumar of Lucknow, competing on his home turf, recorded an even-par 70, placing him second at two-under 138.
The Lucknow Golf Club features a par-70 nine-hole layout, where players navigate the same nine holes twice, each round showcasing varied tee placements and hole locations for the front and back nines.
The cut was set at 10-over 150, with 37 professionals making the cut.
Despite a sluggish start, Umed Kumar (67-68), who was the overnight leader by one stroke, maintained his advantage on Wednesday. The 24-year-old, who has already clinched a victory in this season's PGTI NEXGEN, faced a double-bogey on the par-5 third hole due to a couple of missteps.
However, Umed showcased resilience as he executed impressive putting, including sinking multiple eight-footers and a 10-footer to notch three birdies from the sixth to the 11th holes. A remarkable drive on the 16th hole earned him another birdie, and he concluded the day with a stellar par save on the 18th after recovering from a tee shot that strayed into the trees.
Currently ranked eighth in the PGTI NEXGEN Order of Merit, Umed stated, “My putting was the standout aspect of my round today. It allowed me to rebound after that early double-bogey setback. I recently switched my putter before this event, and it seems to be making a significant difference as I have putted well in both rounds so far.
“I set a target of three-under for each round in this tournament, so I aim to achieve that again in the final round. If I can maintain my strong performance with both tee shots and putting, I believe I have a solid chance of winning.”
Local favorite Sanjeev Kumar (68-70) held onto his second spot for the second consecutive day, finishing with a 70 that included three birdies and three bogeys. Teenager Abhimanyu Dhara from Panchkula wrapped up the day in third place, totaling even-par 140.