Khalin Joshi Dominates Bengaluru Open 2026 with Impressive Lead
Joshi Takes Charge at His Home Course
Khalin Joshi showcased an outstanding performance at the Bengaluru Open 2026, extending his lead to six strokes after a solid four-under 68 in the second round at the Karnataka Golf Association (KGA).
The 34-year-old golfer from Bengaluru, who previously shot an impressive 11-under 61 in the first round, now stands at 15-under 129. His round included five birdies and just one bogey, which occurred on the par-four seventh hole, marking his only slip of the day. Joshi, a three-time winner on the PGTI this season, arrived in Bengaluru fresh off a victory at the Nava Raipur Open and started the week ranked seventh in the Race to India Championship.
The Competition Heats Up
Local talent Manoj S, an 18-year-old, maintained his second position with a total of nine-under 135 after a two-under 70 round. His round was marked by five birdies, one bogey, and a double bogey.
In a tie for third place at seven-under 137 are four players: Manu Gandas from Gurugram (69-68), Saptak Talwar from Greater Noida (67-70), Shaurya Bhattacharya from Delhi (66-71), and Veer Ahlawat from Gurugram (68-69). Notably, Gandas was the 2023 PGTI Rankings champion, while Talwar leads the current Race to India Championship. Ahlawat was the top-ranked player in the PGTI Rankings for 2024.
Bengaluru's Mari Muthu R. dropped from a share of fourth to seventh place with a total of six-under 138.
Joshi Expresses Confidence
Joshi expressed satisfaction with his performance, stating, "It was another solid day. I’m pleased with the way I’ve played over the first two rounds and satisfied with where I am. I’m now looking forward to the final two days."
He started his second round strongly with back-to-back birdies and added three more before his only bogey on the seventh hole. Joshi remarked, "I would have liked to finish a little better, especially after making my first bogey of the week, but my game still feels good."
Despite challenging conditions with gusty winds and tougher flag placements, Joshi appreciated the opportunity to play at KGA, saying, "We were blessed with excellent weather, although the gusty wind and tougher flag positions made the course interesting." He plans to maintain his strategy of finding fairways and greens to create birdie opportunities.
Cutline Established for Final Rounds
The halfway cut was set at one-over 145, allowing 52 players from a field of 132 to advance to the final rounds.
The Bengaluru Open serves as the last tournament before the top 60 players on the 2026 PGTI Order of Merit are confirmed. Those finishing in the top 60 will secure their playing rights for the upcoming 2026-27 season.