Fiji, August 2: Australia’s Andrew Dodt, who is seeking his first Asian Tour win since 2015, got off to a flier by posting a five-under-par 67 to grab a share of the morning first round lead with compatriots Jarryd Felton and Nicholas Cullen at the Fiji International presented by Fiji Airways on Thursday. 

Playing under blustery conditions at the Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course, the 32-year-old Australian enjoyed a bogey-free round where he marked his card with three birdies and an eagle to set the opening pace with Felton and Cullen. 

“It was very tough, very windy and I had to control my ball. So my course management was a big factor.  It was a really, really solid round. The last six months haven’t been that great, so it’s been nice to be in this position.  

“I haven’t been able to put four rounds together.  I’ve put rounds together here and there, so today was a step in the right direction,” said Dodt.

India’s Gaganjeet Bhullar stayed close to the leaders by returning with a 70 to ensure he remains in the mix as he chases his ninth Asian Tour title at the Fiji International presented by Fiji Airways, which being tri-sanctioned by the Asian Tour European Tour and ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia again.

“I just need to have more patience and some more maturity towards my weekend rounds. I’ve to keep on doing what I’ve been doing and everything will click, it’s just a matter of time. I need to be more aggressive,” said Bhullar.

Major winner Ernie Els of South Africa and Malaysia’s Gavin Green both signed for a 70 and both believe the contest is far from over as they look to renew their title charge on Friday.

“It was pretty tough this morning. I was hoping for good weather as I feel a little uncomfortable when the wind’s blowing. I’m not out of it, but I’ve got to start stepping on it a bit going forward,’’ said Els.

“It was a bit of a grind as the wind was up early and it kind of stayed there the whole time. It was tough as we didn’t expect it to be up so early.

“I’m okay with playing in the wind but I just hit a couple of bad shots which I hope to correct tomorrow,” said Green.

Ends.