Rattanon and Gaganjeet at tied lead
Cha Choeng Sao – Despite a second round 69, “The Little Prince” Rattanon Wannasrichan still maintained the lead shared by seven time Asian Tour winner Gaganjeet Bhullar of India at 11 under each heading to the weekend stage of the US$300,000 Thailand Open at the Thai Country Club.
The Chanthaburi born Rattanon who was dubbed as "Little Prince" as his name was similar to that of protagonist in a famous Thai soap opera many years ago shot four birdies against two bogeys for a total of 11 under-par-131 for his first midway lead on the Asian Tour.
“I didn’t putt the way I did on Thursday. I went for my shots at some holes but it just didn’t work out,” said the two-time All Thailand Tour winner in search for his biggest tour victory. The first round co-leader with Finland’s Janne Kaske was a first two round leader on a OneAsia event in South Korea two weeks ago before settling at fourth in the end. He said that learnt lesson would benefit him in playing in the last squad alongside the experienced Bhullar.
“I put myself under too much pressure in South Korea and was unable to play my game. This time it will be different as I like this course and I have a friend carrying the bag for me. I want to win my first Asian Tour but I will not let that affects my mental condition,” said the Thai hope.
Bhullar, 29, shot a 66 with just one bogey after 36 holes to surge in contention. This could be the best week of the Indian who had only two top 20 finishes in seven events this year.
“Definitely I’m in a good position. I’ve been in this position a few times. It will be good to give myself motivated for the weekend. A lot of good players playing this week. The guy who plays well at the weekend will take the trophy home,” said Bhullar whose one of seven wins occurred in Thailand seven years ago (Asian Tour Invitational in 2010).
One shot off the lead was Pawin Ingkhapradit from Suphanburi who shot nine birdies, six straight from the sixth to 11th holes, for his career’s best 62 for a total 10-under-par 132.
“My tee shots are very good that led to good six birdies. I also putted very well. I’m happy with everything about my game. It’s really my day,” said Pawin whose best finish on the Asian Tour was a tied fifth at the 2013 Sail Open in India.
Growing up as a protégé of Thai golf legend Boonchu Ruangkit, Pawin was really motivated to follow the footstep of his idol who won this tournament back in 2004.
“He’s always been my inspiration. I want to achieve like what he did. But I won’t let myself under too much pressure for the weekends,” said the 25-year-old who lost his two card two years ago.
Panuphol Pittayarat fired a 69 for a total 133 to take the lone fourth. A pack of big names including Kiradech Aphibarnrat (68), former Asian Tour No 1 Jeev Milkha Singh of India (63), Scott Barr of Australia (67) and local hope Jazz Janewattananond (67) and first round leader Kaske (72) followed at tied fifth with 134s. A total of 77 players made the cut at one under-par-141.
