<i>Jamal takes home crown</i>
Jamal Hossain Mollah put behind his more illustrious opponent Siddikur Rahman by three strokes to claim the American Express Bangladesh Open 2012 at the Kurmitola Golf Club yesterday. Jamal, the 2009 champion, returned a three-under-69 for an aggregate of 11-under-277 to win his first title on the PGTI since turning a professional. Siddikur finished in second position with 8-under-280.
“I concentrated on my game and did not look at the leader board too often even though Siddikur and Mukesh were giving me a tough fight. My chipping was fabulous through the week and I also played some great approach shots. This is a huge win for me as it is my first title as a professional and that too on my home course,” said an elated Jamal.
Jamal's (71-65-72-69) final round of 69 included four birdies and a bogey. The 27-year-old had a splendid start to the round as he birdied the first hole courtesy an excellent four-iron approach shot. Jamal then consolidated his position on the front-nine as he chipped his way to birdies on the third and seventh. He suffered his first setback of the day when he dropped a bogey on the ninth after missing a three feet par putt. Jamal's amazing tee shot on the 12th earned him yet another birdie. He ensured that there were no further hiccups as he made pars on the last six holes and stayed ahead of his nearest challenger Siddikur.
“This victory gives me a big boost in confidence since it has earned me an exemption on the PGTI till 2014-end,” said Jamal who won a cheque of Tk 323,300 lakhs for his exploits.
Meanwhile, Siddikur (66-73-70-71) added to the joy of the local supporters as he bagged second place after firing a one-under-71 which featured five birdies against four bogeys. The 27-year-old regular totalled eight under 280 for the event.
Mukesh Kumar of India bagged third place after shooting a 67, the day's best score. Mukesh totalled seven under 281. Shamim Khan and Abhijit Singh of India grabbed a share of fourth place at five under 283.
Bangladeshi amateur Sajib Ali took home the trophy for the best amateur score. Sajib, the only amateur to make the cut this week, carded a 71 in the final round to total four over 292. Sajib secured tied 15th place.
Comments