Thongchai picks Kiradech for golf World Cup event
Thongchai Jaidee has picked Kiradech Aphibarnrat to be his partner at the World Cup of Golf.
The tournament, featuring 28 two-man teams, will take place in Melbourne from Nov 23-27.
Kiradech, who finished tied for ninth with partner Prayad Marksaeng at Royal Melbourne in 2013, said: “I am happy that Thongchai has asked me to be his partner for the World Cup of Golf.
“Playing with him, my confidence will be high and I think we will have a good chance of claiming the trophy. Thongchai is in good form this season and I’ve been playing quite well over the last few months as well, including at the recent Olympics [where he finished tied fifth].
“I look forward to playing in Melbourne again. I finished really strongly in the individual category in 2013 [tied fifth] which was my best year as a professional and I have been striking the ball sweetly this year. I love the way the golf courses are set up in Melbourne, and it’s always very nice weather there too. I’ve heard that Kingston Heath is a fantastic golf course and is one of the best in the world. I’m looking forward to getting back there.”
Seven Asian nations will now make up the elite 28-team field in Melbourne, with India’s SSP Chawrasia getting a late spot following the withdrawal of Paraguay’s Fabrizio Zanotti.
Chawrasia, a three-time Asian Tour champion, has picked Chikkarangappa S as his partner.
Hideki Matsuyama and Ryo Ishikawa will represent Japan.
Australian world No. 1 Jason Day will partner seventh-ranked Adam Scott, while Rickie Fowler and Jimmy Walker will team up for the United States.
Filipino Miguel Tabuena chose three-time Asian Tour winner Angelo Que, who will make his fourth World Cup of Golf appearance.
An Byeong-Hun of South Korea will partner KT Kim while China’s Wu Ashun picked Li Haotong as his teammate.