Pukhraj Singh Gill Takes Lead at ADT Players Championship in Malaysia
Gill's Stellar Performance at the ADT Players Championship
Kuala Lumpur [Malaysia], May 7: Pukhraj Singh Gill from India showcased exceptional golf skills on the second day of the ADT Players Championship, playing 25 holes and securing the top spot for his first Asian Development Tour (ADT) title.
After completing seven holes from the initial round, the 29-year-old, who previously clinched the Order of Merit on the IGPL Tour in India, leads the 36-hole clubhouse standings with an impressive score of 11-under-par 133 at the Saujana Golf & Country Club in Malaysia.
Resuming his first round, Gill improved his score from 4-under to 6-under, sharing the lead before play was interrupted by a two-and-a-half-hour thunderstorm delay yesterday.
Although the weather was more favorable today, play was halted for nearly an hour due to lightning threats. A total of 44 players, including co-leader Alfred Sitohang from Indonesia, will return tomorrow morning to finish their second rounds before the cut for the top 50 and ties.
After starting with a six-under-par 66 at the renowned Palm Course, Gill continued his strong performance with a second-round score of 67, featuring seven birdies and two bogeys. He currently holds a one-shot lead over Thai newcomer Thanawin Lee, who also recorded two rounds of 67.
Having won once in the inaugural Indian Golf Premier League last year, Gill expressed his excitement about being in contention for his first ADT title after several appearances on this prestigious developmental circuit.
"I’m thrilled with my performance; I made very few mistakes. My first round was nearly flawless—hitting fairways, greens, and many one-putts. In the second round, I managed some crucial par saves," Gill shared, noting that this is his first time playing at Saujana.
"Reaching 12-under-par made me a bit anxious, leading to a dropped shot, so I plan to maintain my rhythm and stay composed tomorrow, continuing with my current strategy," he added.
Gill highlighted his strong ball striking and effective play with the driver and wedges, stating, "This course suits my game well." Over the 36 holes, he has recorded three bogeys, 12 birdies, and one eagle.
"I’m drawing confidence from my performance in Singapore, which was reassuring given the elite competition," he concluded.
Teenager Kartik Singh is also performing well, currently tied for seventh after a 5-under first round and 1-over through 12 holes in the second round.
Khalin is at 2-under and tied for 21st, while Aman Raj is at 1-over and tied for 52nd, right on the cut line. Aryan Roopa Anand, who recently triumphed in the IGPL, will miss the cut after scores of 74-75, as will Varun Parikh with scores of 77-73.