Shinkwin back in swing

Scottish Open runner-up leads way after opening 66 in Prague

Callum Shinkwin showed no signs of rust as he carded an opening 66 to claim the lead in the D+D Real Czech Masters in Prague, the first qualifying event for next year’s Ryder Cup.

The Englishman has not played competitively since following a play-off defeat in the Scottish Open by missing the cut in the Open, but carded eight birdies and two bogeys to head the leaderboard at Albatross Golf Resort.

At six under, Shinkwin led by a shot from compatriot James Heath, South Africa’s Dylan Frittelli and Sweden’s Pontus Widegren, with Scotland’s Craig Lee part of an eight-strong group on four under.

Defending champion Paul Peterson was a shot further back with 2015 champion and last year’s runner-up Thomas Pieters carding a 71.

Shinkwin bogeyed the 72nd hole of the Scottish Open before losing on the first play-off hole to Spain’s Rafa Cabrera Bello, but the 24-year-old admitted the performance had been a major confidence boost.

“It was massive,” the former English Amateur champion said. “I played the Open afterwards and missed the cut and I’ve had five weeks off, but the confidence has still been there, even playing at home.”

England’s Eddie Pepperell looked certain to overhaul Shinkwin when he played his first eight holes in six under par, but the 26-year-old carded two double bogeys on his back nine to finish three under.

Leading scores (Gbr & Irl unless stated): 66 Callum Shinkwin 67 Pontus Widegren (Swe), James Heath, Dylan Frittelli (Rsa)

68 Craig Lee, Jaco Ahlers (Rsa), Oscar Lengden (Swe), Felipe Aguilar (Chl), James Morrison, Julian Suri (USA), Chris Hanson, Peter Karmis (Rsa) Other scores included: 69 Paul Peterson (USA), Jamie Donaldson, Eddie Pepperell 70 Lee Westwood 71 Martin Kaymer (Ger), Scott Henry, Thomas Pieters (Bel) 74 John Daly (USA), Darren Clarke 75 Stephen Gallacher 76 Duncan Stewart 78 Marc Warren

Picture: Getty. Callum Shinkwin acknowledges the crowd after making a birdie on the 18th green.