Tie for Lead at AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open
Dylan Naidoo delivered a stunning performance in the front nine, shooting a 66 in the third round to tie with Eddie Pepperell at the top of the leaderboard at the AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open. Naidoo, who began the day three shots behind, ignited his round with an early birdie, followed by a string of five consecutive birdies starting from the third hole, propelled by exceptional putting.
The South African golfer balanced his scorecard with two additional birdies and a pair of bogeys, establishing an 11-under par target in the clubhouse. Eddie Pepperell, who had been a co-leader from the start, matched Naidoo’s score with a critical ten-foot putt on the 18th, signing off with a 69 to stay in contention for a wire-to-wire victory—a much-needed boost after missing a DP World Tour card at last month’s Qualifying School.
Just one stroke behind the leaders, Jacob Skov Olesen remains a strong contender after his approach on the 18th clanged off the flagstick, setting up an easy birdie. This follows his recent accomplishment as the first Danish winner of The Amateur Championship and securing his DP World Tour card.
Naidoo had a stellar start, holing a six-footer for birdie at the first hole and continuing his impressive play with precise iron shots and a series of successful long putts. Despite a hiccup on the ninth where his chip deflected off a sprinkler leading to a bogey, he maintained a strong pace and briefly regained the solo lead with a tap-in birdie on the 13th.
The spectators at Mont Choisy Le Golf witnessed Naidoo’s putting prowess, particularly with a 25-foot birdie on the 17th. However, he ended his round on a sour note, missing a 12-foot birdie attempt followed by a par putt, concluding the day with a 66.
Reflecting on his round, Naidoo expressed satisfaction with his performance, noting his preference for driver-friendly courses and his recent form with irons and putter. With one round left, he remains optimistic and eager to embrace the challenge, marking his first time in such a competitive position.
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Pepperell, meanwhile, shared insights into his strategic approach, emphasizing the importance of managing his game effectively, especially under potentially windy conditions expected in the final round. He remains focused on improving his iron play to secure a strong finish and reclaim his tour playing privileges.
