CHIP CHIP HOORAY

Rory and DJ lead return of pro golf after 66 days and Mcilroy admits: It’s great to give the fans an escape from misery

is awesome. We can bring entertainment to quite a few people and also help in some way,” said Mcilroy.

“I’m just happy to be able to help in some way and bring some joy to people when they haven’t had anything to look forward to for a couple of months.”

European captain Padraig

“hypothetical” and is convinced it would have to be held behind closed doors.

“It is hard to believe but to have the four guys playing this weekend is all part of the PGA Tour getting going in a month which leads into the Majors and into the Ryder Cup,” said Harrington (left).

“It is a stepping stone. At this stage the Ryder Cup bit is so hypothetical until we get these events away and we see what is happening.”

But the three-time Major winner is still preparing for every eventuality.

He would like at least six weeks of play on the European Tour to finalise his picks – and guarantee the inclusion of any form horse by using his last selecmatch tion on the Sunday night before the Friday start.

“You couldn’t turn up at the Ryder Cup and not have the US Open champion there, could you?” he said. “I would like to wait until as late as possible. You can change anyone’s mind by playing well at the US Open.”

The US Open has been for September 17.

The Ryder Cup is still more than four months away but with travel to the USA currently requiring a two-week quarantine on arrival – and the same on the return to the UK – Harrington said: “I honestly can’t see it going ahead with spectators. But there is no player who wants to play it behind closed doors.”

Mcilroy’s charity match can be watched on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Golf, tomorrow, 7pm

rescheduled