Kuala Lumpur, MALAYSIA: Darren Clarke, captain of the European EurAsia Cup team, and later the Ryder Cup team in September, said his sole focus right now is to win this week.
The Irishman, winner of the 2011 Open Championship and one of the most successful Ryder Cup players for Europe, leads a 12-man strong team against the Jeev Milkha Singh’s Asia at Glenmarie Golf & Country Club.
On the eve of the tournament, Clarke insisted Ryder Cup was not in his thought process right now.
“No, it’s the EurAsia Cup. Obviously, there’s no Ryder Cup stuff going on in the back of my mind with possible pairings. First and foremost, it’s this week,” said Clarke.
“We as Europe, we’re here to try and win, as Jeev is, with his Asian team. The thoughts and everything I’m trying to do is going towards this week.
“When we’re finished this week, then obviously…if we come back with a few pairings and what happened during the week, hopefully if I’ve learned something from this week for September, then so be it.”
Following the thrilling 10-10 draw in the inaugural edition, Clarke believes home advantage could prove vital for Singh’s side.
“We are playing in the Asian team’s backyard, so they are a bit more used to the heat and humidity than we are, which may give them a bit of an advantage,” he added.
“When the humidity comes with this sort of heat, it is quite oppressive. And it probably feels even hotter than the last time we were here.
“It’s too close to call, and I think there’s a pretty good chance it could end in another draw. You have two very strong teams, and because it’s match play anything could happen. Hopefully, it will be every bit as exciting as last time. Although, I don’t know how our nerves will be at the end of the week.”
Singh, a two-time Asian Tour Order of Merit champion and truly a torchbearer of golf in the continent, was trying to remain calm and relaxed, and that is what he is telling his players.
“I believe in our players. I know that all of them have the experience. They are used to the weather. They have played in Asia many times, and they play these kind of courses all the time,” said Singh.
“So I just basically have to make sure they are comfortable, happy, and relaxed. When all of these things are given to him, that’s when a player plays his best.
“I don’t even have to tell them to try their best, because I know they are all going to give 100 per cent.”
