Indian golfer Anirban Lahiri moved to the top of the leaderboard of the CIMB Classic in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday. Lahiri has a four-point lead over defending champion Justin Thomas after the third round. With a round score of seven-under 72, Lahiri took his overall score to 19-under, reported ESPN. The 29-year-old is set to bag his first ever PGA title if things go accordingly on Sunday.
Starting the round in second position and two shots behind overnight leader Thomas, Lahiri hit nine birdies to take the lead. Lahiri’s heroics powered him ahead of overnight leader and defending champion Justin Thomas (71) and Scotland’s Russell Knox (68).
"I was determined today to keep my focus right through the 18 holes, and I'm happy I managed to do that. Just going to try and do the same tomorrow," Lahiri told the PGA site after the round.
Gaganjeet Bhullar, who was tied-54th after round two, slipped 16 places to finish tied-70th after going two over par on the day. SSP Chawrasia, the third Indian in the fray, slipped two positions, and finished tied-75th after hitting one over par in the round. Not only does Lahiri have a chance to get his first win on the tour, he is now only seven birdies away on the final day from equalling the all-time record for most birdies on a 72-hole event on the tour.
Limited-time offer: Big stories, small price. Keep independent media alive. Become a Scroll member today!
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!