CHENNAI: Rashid Khan might rue his only even-par round at the McLeod Russel Tour Championship. The 72 came in the last round and prevented him from challenging overnight leader Pariya Junhasavasdikul of Thailand, who won the title by three strokes.
But the second-place finish at the Professional Golf Tour of India’s year-ending event at Royal Calcutta Golf Course featuring select players and the cheque for `15 lakh meant he topped the Order of Merit with total earnings of `44.8 lakh. This is the second time he has headed the PGTI annual chart, after 2013.
“Would have been better to win, but I’d take this,” the Delhi pro told Express from Kolkata.
“That I topped Order of Merit before doesn’t make this insignificant. It’ll boost my confidence going ahead next year.” He took part in just eight of the 21 PGTI events. That the second, third and fourth on the list played 19, 12 and 12 tourneys shows how better than the rest Rashid fared.
From a humble background, Rashid has been concentrating on the Asian Tour after 2013. He had two wins in 2014, including one in Thailand, his first abroad. But two top-10s and five missed cuts in 13 events suggests the 2010 Asian Games didn’t have a great year. A motorcycle accident made things worse.
“Nothing memorable other than the top-10s. But overall, I’m happy the way it’s going. I’ve learnt lessons. At a higher level, it’s about not giving up. Following a routine to get ready mentally and physically is also important. There’s no time to waste,” said Rashid. “Can’t play cricket with friends, like I used to.”
He is one of the growing list of Indians trying their luck abroad from a young age. Like Gaganjeet Bhullar or Anirban Lahiri, who won fairly quickly after venturing out, Rashid too cracked that code. But six top-10s in 32 events in the last two years means he has to regain a few things other than putting lessons in practice.
“It takes a bit of time to get used to things after you graduate from the PGTI level. I’m not thinking about what has happened. My focus is on the next year.” With a well earned New Year gift in the bag, Rashid can plan afresh and look ahead.
atreyo@newindianexpress.com