Kiwi Campbell leads in Fiji

Ben Campbell led the New Zealand charge at the Fiji International, carding a five-underpar opening round to grab a share of the lead yesterday.

The Wairarapa golfer had seven birdies and two bogeys in his opening round of 67 at Natadola Bay to share the lead with Australian trio Nick Cullen, Jarryd Felton and Andrew Dodt.

The four leaders had a two-shot margin over the rest of the field in the co-sanctioned A$1.25 million tournament, which drew such big names as South African Ernie Els who carded an opening round of even-par 72.

Of the 14-strong New Zealand contingent, Harry Bateman (70) and Nick Voke (71) were among just 18 golfers to go under par while Michael Hendry, in his first tournament since the Open Championship, signed for an opening round of 73.

Campbell, 26, faced the day’s worst weather in the afternoon as the wind increased.

‘‘It’s good knowing the course really well,’’ he told the PGA Tour of Australasia website.

‘‘I came from Thailand last week, so I didn’t play any practice rounds. I came out here on Tuesday, hit a few balls, hit a few putts and then just played the Pro Am.

‘‘It’s my caddie’s first time around here, but I kind of explained it and just told him how it was going to play.’’

Since winning his maiden pro title at February’s NZ PGA Championship, Campbell made the cut in all of his next eight events across Asia.