Worcestershire

Indian golfer Saptak Talwar emerged as the best-performing Indian after the opening round of the English Open, carding a three-under-par 69 to finish the day tied for 22nd place at The Vale Golf Club.

Talwar's round was particularly noteworthy as he recovered strongly after a double bogey on the opening hole. The 26-year-old steadied himself with five birdies and avoided any further dropped shots to stay within striking distance of the leaders.

His birdies came on the fifth, eighth, 10th, 14th and 16th holes, helping him bounce back from the early setback.

England's George Bloor topped the leaderboard with a seven-under 65, while Graeme Robertson occupied second place on six-under 66. Six players shared third place after posting rounds of five-under 67.

Talwar entered the tournament in encouraging form, having finished runner-up at the DP World PGTI Open earlier this season and securing a tied-17th finish at last week's Interwetten Open. He currently sits 28th in the Road to Mallorca rankings.

Meanwhile, fellow Indian Veer Ahlawat endured a mixed opening round and signed for a one-over 73, leaving him tied for 96th place.

Ahlawat recorded four birdies during his round, on the fourth, eighth, 10th and 11th holes, but three bogeys and a costly double bogey on the 17th prevented him from moving higher up the standings.

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With three rounds still to play, both Indians will look to improve their positions as the tournament progresses.