Khan sparkling at home

he 28-year-old Khan fired a sparkling five-under-par 67 at DLF Golf and Country Club and set up the possibility of becoming the second Indian winner of a major tournament on home soil in the past month.

The slightly-built Indian was joined atop the leaderboard by Argentina’s Daniel Vancsik, who carded six birdies against a lone bogey in the US$2.5 million event dubbed the Asia Pacific’s premier golf tournament.

Khan’s stunning performance marked a memorable first day for the Indian contingent as Jeev Milkha Singh, the Asian Tour’s number one in 2006, ended the day in a share of third place alongside compatriot Rahil Gangjee and nine other players following a 68 while US-based Arjun Atwal, Shiv Kapur and Arjun Singh were a further stroke back.

Reigning Asian Tour Order of Merit champion Liang Wen-chong of China also enjoyed a solid start when he overcame a double bogey for a 69.

The marquee names at the Johnnie Walker Classic endured mixed days. World number five Adam Scott of Australia battled into the mix with a 68 and could have led on his own if not for a double bogey on his 16th hole when he sprayed his tee shot into the water.

Three-time Major champion Vijay Singh of Fiji carded a 70 but Europe’s Ryder Cup stars Colin Montgomerie of Scotland and England’s Ian Poulter struggled with a 74 and 76 respectively.