There was no Friday the 13th jitters for Jbe Kruger of South Africa as he charged into a share of the second round clubhouse lead at the weather-hit Maybank Malaysian Open with a solid seven-under-par 65 on Friday.
Kruger took full advantage of ideal conditions in the morning as he fired eight birdies against one bogey to tie countryman Hennie Otto, who fired a brilliant 64, on nine-under-par 135 at the Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club.
American Rookie David Lipsky shot a 67, pushing him to equal fourth place alongside world number seven Martin Kaymer of Germany, who had a 67.
Masters Tournament runner-up Louis Oosthuizen of South Africa, lying on eight-under for the championship through 12 holes, is amongst the 75 players who will return on Saturday morning to complete their rounds after an
afternoon thunderstorm disrupted play.
The pint-sized Kruger, who took 27 putts in his round, is hoping to strike his irons hot during the weekend as he chases a second Asian Tour victory following his maiden success at the Avantha Masters in India in February.
"I've been working on a lot of things and it seems to be coming together which is always a good sign. I just worked a bit on my swing which is not really a 100% yet. My ball striking used to be my strength and now it is my weakness," he said.
Kaymer, the highest ranked player in the field, charged into contention with six birdies on the card.
"I played really well and gave myself a lot of birdie chances. I had a good eagle chance on three and felt like a hit a lot of good putts but maybe just over-read the greens. I feel good about the game and if I can make a few more putts I feel I can really get into the tournament," said the German.
golf365.com