The first-ever shotgun start in The International Series played to the advantage of Joaquin Niemann, who surged ahead during the third round of the $1 million International Series India presented by DLF on the Asian Tour at DLF Golf & Country Club, Delhi.
The Chilean reached seven under par for the tournament after just eight holes before play was suspended due to darkness. Japan’s Kazuki Higa trails by one shot, while American Ollie Schniederjans sits three strokes back, both playing in the same group as Niemann.
Fog Disruptions Prompt Shotgun Start
Thick morning fog has caused multiple delays throughout the week, leading tournament organisers to introduce a shotgun start for the third and fourth rounds. This decision ensures that the event remains on track for completion on Sunday afternoon.
The third round will resume at 7:30 am (local time) on Sunday, weather permitting, with the final round scheduled to begin at 11:10 am.
Niemann Eyes Back-to-Back Titles
Having won the season-ending PIF Saudi International powered by SoftBank Investment Advisers in December, Niemann is in prime position to claim back-to-back titles on The International Series. His third round saw him make a birdie on the third hole and par the rest before play was halted. Niemann led by two at the halfway stage after the completion of round two earlier in the day.
Chasing Pack in Contention
Australian Travis Smyth and Spaniard Eugenio Chacarra are in joint fourth, four shots behind Niemann. American Bryson DeChambeau, the tournament’s marquee name and reigning US Open champion, sits six shots adrift.
Shotgun Start Makes International Series Debut
While this marks the first shotgun start on The International Series, the Asian Tour has previously used the format. Last year’s Mercuries Taiwan Masters implemented two shotgun starts over the weekend due to delays caused by Typhoon Krathon.
Lahiri & Bhullar Lead Indian Challenge
Tournament host Anirban Lahiri and fellow Indian star Gaganjeet Bhullar are the leading home players, tied for 22nd on two over par. Frenchman Joel Stalter, a Dubai Golden VISA awardee, is positioned well in tied 14th on one over.
Dubai Golden VISA Awardees – Round 3 Standings (Incomplete)
- T. 14th J. Stalter (Fr) +1
- T. 22nd G. Bhullar (Ind) +3
- T. 22nd A. Lahiri (Ind) +3
- T. 44th D. Horsey (Eng) +7
- T. 66th S. Kapur (Ind) +12
This week’s inaugural $2 million International Series India event marks the first stop of the season on The International Series and the second tournament of the Asian Tour, following last week’s Smart Infinity Philippine Open. With all to play for on Sunday, the stage is set for a thrilling finale in Delhi.
