Amandeep Johl to lead India at Philippine Open

Manila, May 23: Seasoned pro Amandeep Johl will be leading the Indian challenge at the Philippine Open which gets underway here next week.

Johl, who finished tied 42nd in the Macau Open this weekend, will have to tackle the tricky Wack Wack Golf and Country Club's East course for a decent finish.

Meanwhile, local favourite Felix Casas will be hoping to revive his career and force his way back among the elite on the Asian Tour after several years in the doldrums.

''I'm feeling good, my swing feels good. I've worked hard on my short game over the past few months with my coach Bong Lopez and I hope it pays off here,'' he said.

Casas was slated to play in the inaugural Aamby Valley Asian Masters in Mumbai but a car accident came in the way and even though he escaped with a minor back muscle pull, he had to withdraw from the Macau Open as well.

The Philippine Open will boast of many of the Asian Tour winners, including last year's champion Adam Le Vesconte of Australia, Chinese Taipei's Wang Ter-chang, Thai veteran Boonchu Ruangkit and Macau Open winner Kane Webber of Australia.

Former European Tour regular Jarrod Moseley of Australia will also challenge for the title along with compatriot Scott Strange, American Bryan Saltus and big-hitting Thai Chapchai Nirat -- all ranked in the top-20 of the UBS Order of Merit.

UNI