Chacarra Takes Two-Shot Lead as McIlroy Falters in India

NEW DELHI: (Sports Desk) – Spain’s Eugenio Chacarra took a two-shot clubhouse lead at the DP World India Championship on Saturday, while Rory McIlroy endured a difficult third round at the weather-disrupted European Tour event.

Chacarra, who won the Hero Indian Open earlier this year, was 14-under-par after an incomplete third round at Delhi Golf Club. The Spaniard, currently second in the Race to Dubai standings, had seven holes remaining heading into the final day.

Despite improved weather conditions on Saturday, the tournament remained behind schedule after nearly five hours of delays on the opening day. Chacarra and six-time major champion McIlroy completed their second rounds earlier in the day.

Northern Ireland’s McIlroy, who had made a strong start to the tournament over the first two days, struggled during his third round. He carded four bogeys and a double bogey before recovering some ground with an eagle on the 14th hole.

However, McIlroy remained two-over-par for his third round with three holes left to play. He stood at four-under-par overall and was tied for 40th place.

Dutch golfer Joost Luiten and Spain’s Angel Hidalgo were tied for second at 12-under-par, two shots behind Chacarra. New Zealand’s Daniel Hillier, Poland’s Adrian Meronk and Scotland’s Scott Jamieson were another shot back at 11-under.

Defending champion Tommy Fleetwood of England was tied for 11th at nine-under-par after completing his third round during a demanding day at the course.

With favourable weather forecast for the final day, players will look to complete the remaining rounds as the tournament seeks to recover from its earlier delays.