New Delhi, 11 April (H.S.):
The prestigious Masters Golf Tournament at Augusta has taken a dramatic turn after the halfway cut. Rory McIlroy has seized a sensational six‑shot lead, the largest 36‑hole advantage in Masters history, while Indian‑American golfer Akshay Bhatia exited the tournament after failing to make the cut.
McIlroy shot a brilliant 65 in the second round, featuring six birdies over the last seven holes, to reach 12‑under 132. His lead represents the biggest mid‑tournament margin ever recorded at the Masters, underlining both his experience and his composure under pressure.
Despite a few wayward tee shots, McIlroy kept his composure, played cleverly around the greens, and displayed exceptional precision on shorter approach shots. He now looks set to join the elite group of great champions—Jack Nicklaus, Nick Faldo, and Tiger Woods—who have won consecutive Masters titles.
In second place are Patrick Reed and Sam Burns, both six shots behind McIlroy. Reed carded a 69 but slipped back with a bogey on the final hole, while Burns birdied the last two holes to finish with a 71.
Several big names fell by the wayside in the cut battle, with Akshay Bhatia among the most prominent casualties. After opening with a 73, Bhatia began the second round strongly, but three double bogeys on the back nine, including a final‑hole double, ended his hopes.
The round‑ending mistake wiped out all chances of a comeback and sent him packing.
Aaron Rai, meanwhile, survived a tough stretch to remain in the field. After three consecutive bogeys, he played the next seven holes at level par to close with a 74, finishing at 1‑over 145 and 32nd overall.
Justin Rose, Shane Lowry, and Tommy Fleetwood are all at 5‑under and remain in contention. Fleetwood carded a 66 with two eagles, while Rose overcame putting struggles to post a 67. Bryson DeChambeau also missed the cut; after starting on 73, a triple bogey on the 18th hole sealed his fate.
All eyes are now on Rory McIlroy, who enters the weekend in formidable form and is widely regarded as the strongest contender for the green jacket.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
