Nerveless Rattanon edges closer to Thailand Open win

BANGKOK, Thailand: Twenty-one-year-old Rattanon Wannasrichan hit a flawless 65 on Saturday to take a slim overnight lead into the final day at Thailand Open as he bids for a breakthrough Asian Tour title.

The up-and-coming Thai star has delighted home fans sharing the clubhouse lead at the end of each of the first two days.

Six birdies during including a pair on the final two holes —took him to 17-under for the tournament (196).

That gave him a one-shot lead over compatriot P anupho Pittayarat, 24, who scorched r oun d the Thai Country Club in 64 and has dropped only one shot so far this week.

Indian ace Gaganjeet Bhullar remained within striking distance on 15-under, with another Thai favourite — Kiradech Aphibarnrat — a shot further back after notching a 65. Only three Thais have won the Thailand Open since 1965. l Saturday’s third round — Leading scores after round two of the $300,000 Asian Tour Thailand Open at the Thai Country Club on Friday: 196 - Rattanon Wannasrichan (THA) 62-69-65 197 - Panuphol Pittayarat (THA) 64-69-64 198 - Gaganjeet Bhullar (IND) 65-66-67 199 - Kiradech Aphibarnrat (THA) 66-68-65 200 - Ben Leong (MAS) 70-64-66, Terry Pilkadaris (AUS) 67-67-66, Pawin Ingkhapradit (THA) 70-62-68, 201 - Scott Barr (AUS) 67-67-67 202 - Suradit Yongcharoenchai (THA) 71-67-64, Shiv Kapoor (IND) 70-6765