In a dramatic turn of events at the Hero Indian Open, Keita Nakajima blazes his way to the forefront, setting the course ablaze with a scorching second consecutive round of 65.
As Friday afternoon’s play comes to an abrupt halt due to lightning, Nakajima stands tall, holding a commanding two-stroke lead heading into the weekend.
Hailing from Japan, Nakajima’s ascent to the top of the leaderboard is nothing short of spectacular.
A former World Amateur Golf Ranking sensation, boasting an unprecedented 87-week stint at Number One, Nakajima’s transition to the professional circuit two years ago has been marked by sheer brilliance.
With eight birdies and an eagle punctuating his stellar performance, Nakajima’s mastery of the DLF Golf & Country Club sees him soar to an impressive 14 under par.
A formidable start sees the 23-year-old surge ahead by six strokes within the first 11 holes, only to face a slight setback with three consecutive bogeys from the 14th.
Undeterred, Nakajima showcases nerves of steel as he finishes strong with a sensational birdie-eagle finale on the daunting 17th and 18th holes of the Gary Player Course, firmly securing his position at the top of the leaderboard.
Hot on Nakajima’s heels is Frenchman Romain Langasque, matching his impressive first-round score of six under par to trail by a mere two strokes.
Meanwhile, Italy’s Matteo Manassero, eyeing a second victory in as many months following his Jonsson Workwear Open triumph, displays his prowess with a remarkable display of three birdies and two eagles, including a jaw-dropping wedge shot on the par four 17th.
As play pauses amidst the suspense, contenders like Jeong Weon Ko of France and Dutchman Joost Luiten remain in the hunt, poised to make their mark on the leaderboard with unfinished business awaiting them on the course.
Closer to home, Veer Ahlawat spearheads the Indian charge, holding firm in sixth place with a stellar nine under par, buoyed by a remarkable second-round performance.
With the action set to resume at the crack of dawn, anticipation hangs thick in the air as 46 competitors gear up to complete their second rounds, setting the stage for a thrilling weekend showdown.
Brace yourselves for a golfing spectacle unlike any other, as Nakajima and company vie for glory amidst the lightning and thunder of Delhi’s sporting arena.