Sharma’s hope

Shubhankar Sharma’s quest to become the first Indian to win the European Tour’s Rookie of the Year award started slowly at the season-ending DP World Tour Championship yesterday with a one-over 73.

The 22-year-old is the top ranked rookie in the Race to Dubai money-list, ahead of Lucas Herbert and Sam Horsfield. Sharma said: “You can only do it once in your career. The Asian Tour Order of Merit is on the line as well. So, if I can get both that will be great.” He currently tops the Asian Order of Merit standings with six events left.

Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy remains undecided about taking up European Tour membership next season, despite the fact that missing the Tour season would result in him being overlooked for future Ryder Cup captaincy.

“That’s 20 years away,” he said. “Everyone has to do what’s best for them, and for me next year, I’m trying to do what’s best for me to help me get back to being the best player in the world and to try and win Majors again.”