Chawrasia says confidence sky high ahead of World Cup of Golf

Melbourne, Nov 14 (IANS) India's S.S.P. Chawrasia on Monday said that his triumph in the Manila Masters on Sunday has filled him with plenty of confidence as he gets ready to pair up with compatriot S. Chikka in next week's ISPS HANDA World Cup of Golf.

Chawrasia prevailed on the second play-off hole in Manila. The win on the Asian Tour was the first for the 38-year-old outside India.

He birdied the 18th play-off hole twice to clinch victory over Sam Chien of the United States and Malaysia's Nicholas Fung.

Moving to the next task, Chawrasia will team up with Chikka to represent India at the Kingston Heath Golf Club from November 24 to 27 in one of golf's only global team events, with 28 two-man teams representing their countries.

"I'm looking forward to getting a week's rest back home before flying to Melbourne for the World Cup of Golf. The game's been good and the season's been nothing short of great too, having won my home open earlier this year," the Kolkatan said in an Asian Tour release.

"This win will give me a boost in confidence and shape my game up nicely for the World Cup of Golf in two weeks' time."

Meanwhile, the organisers announced that Japan's Hideki Matsuyama will be paired with fellow Japanese star Ryo Ishikawa in the 58th edition of the historic event.

The tournament officials also announced that England's Danny Willett has chosen to withdraw from the World Cup of Golf. Chris Wood will take Willett's place.

Justin Rose, the next highest ranked player from England in the Official World Golf Ranking from the original standings used the week after the U.S. PGA Championship, also opted not to play as he is recovering from back surgery.

The next player from England, Wood, committed to the event. Wood was then able to select the partner of his choice, choosing Andy Sullivan which means that Lee Westwood no longer had a spot in this year's event.

In addition to the changes for England, Donaldson recently withdrew from the Wales team with Bradley Dredge selecting Stuart Manley to be his partner.