PLAY THE LOW PUNCH SHOT

This is the one shot you need to have if you want to play well at Royal St George’s, especially in blustery conditions. The greens are so firm that you can’t land the ball on them and expect it to stop. Instead, you’re better off using the lie of the land and hitting what is essentially a long chip shot to chase the ball onto the green. HOW TO PLAY IT? The set-up is almost identical to a standard chip shot with a narrower stance and the ball slightly back of centre. Because we are trying to trap the ball, you need to position the shaft and hands ahead of the ball and keep the weight on your front foot (60/40) to promote a more downward strike. From here, it’s simply a case of keeping the lower body quiet and transitioning from a shorter backswing into an abbreviated follow through, just like Tommy Fleetwood does. As with hitting a drive into wind, swing within yourself so you don’t go chasing speed into impact. That smoother swing will keep the spin rates down and produce the penetrative flight you’re looking for.

Because you’re taking spin and power off the shot, you’ll need to club up. So, if you usually use a 7-iron from 150 yards, consider taking at least a 5-iron, depending on wind, and grip down the handle slightly for added control.