Enough hype has already been generated even before the start of 49th Indian Open. The US $1.25 million prize money event to be started from Karnataka Golf Association on Thursday has already generated huge interest from fans. It is for the first time that the premier golfing event is about to be held in South India instead of the usually chosen places like Delhi and Kolkata. Top Indian golfers are expected to display their histrionics matching their foreign counters. It would be no surprise then one of the Indian players wins the tournament. It needs to be seen how the event progresses.
However, people craving to watch their favorite golfers in the form of seasoned players like Jeev Milkha Singh and Arjun Atwal, still they have to remain content as they have not approved of their participation. The only saving grace is the availability of Gaganjeet Bhullar who will be the cynosure of all eyes now. Bhullar is on a career high after winning notable events such as Venetian Macau Open a few days back. It all began for this talented Indian golfer with the cruising ahead of all others during Yeangder Tournament Players Championship, which was held last month. Later, Bhullar was conferred with Asian Tour Order of Merit.
Other notable players who are capable of winning the tournament are Anirban Lahiri along with 2009 Indian Open winner C Muniyappa and others. Meanwhile, other Indian golfing greats such as Shiv Kapur and Himmat Rai too are in contention for the coveted tournament. As far as Lahiri is considered, he holds the edge for being from Bengaluru. In fact, he won the Asian Tour twice during his prolific career. Local conditions would definitely favor him in comparison to others. Meanwhile, a leg injury threatens spirited participation from Muniyappa who is yet to recover.
Jyoti Randhawa is a veteran golfer who takes part with other players like Shiv Kapur. Being regular on the Asian circuit, Kapur is a well-known personality who is raring to give his best. Other players such as Shamim Khan and Harendra Gupta too are in the foray and will be hoping to win the title surprising all others. As far as the foreign players taking part in the Indian Open 2012 are considered, Peter Hanson from Sweden shows a lot of promise. Scottish golfer Richie Ramsay too is known for his perfect timing and execution skills. Apart from these top challengers, David Gleeson from Australia too participates as well who is the defending champion as well.
Hanson could spring in a special surprise because of being five-time European Tour champion. Participating for the Ryder Cup by being a member of the Europe team, the Swede holds the edge for sure. However, Gleeson has not been going great guns by finishing 17th during the Venetian Macau Open. In addition to all these players, there are several others who would be testing out their luck such as Ramsay who has won Omega European Masters. Considering all these aspects, it would be an uphill task for players like Gaganjeet Bhullar.
