Canadian golfer Richard T. Lee surged ahead at the BNI Indonesian Masters with a three-shot lead after the second round. Displaying skill and precision, Lee has captivated fans, finishing his day at 15-under-par. However, a bogey and double-bogey finish in the final two holes cut his previously commanding six-stroke advantage, leaving the competition wide open for the weekend.

Strong Start for Lee, Challengers Close in

Starting with a remarkable 10-under-par 62 in the opening round, Lee continued his momentum into the second, carding a solid 67. Thailand’s Jazz Janewattananond trails in second place after shooting a 69, while Rashid Khan from India and Kieran Vincent from Zimbabwe sit two strokes further back, tied for third. Both Khan and Vincent shot consistent rounds of 67, keeping them well within reach as the tournament progresses.

Lee’s Impressive Birdie Streak Interrupted by Final Hole Fumble

Lee, in command for most of his round, built a solid lead with a seven-birdie stretch over eight holes starting at the eighth hole. This birdie bonanza brought his score to a comfortable lead until two unfortunate mistakes on the final holes. On the penultimate hole, Lee’s tee shot went right, resulting in a lost ball and bogey. A water hazard on the last hole led to a double-bogey, tightening the competition as he heads into the weekend.

“I felt like I had full control of my golf ball, especially my iron shots,” Lee reflected. “The last two holes were a little hiccup, but I’m ready to turn it around tomorrow.” Notably, Lee made a recent putter switch, which he attributes to his recent performance surge, adding confidence to his game.

Jazz Janewattananond’s Return to Form

2019 BNI Indonesian Masters champion Jazz Janewattananond appears to be finding his rhythm just in time. After struggling this season, Janewattananond switched to a broomstick putter, a decision sparked during a Pro-Am practice round. The new equipment has noticeably improved his results, helping him achieve a season-best joint 12th place last week.

“An amateur friend let me try his broomstick putter, and I immediately saw results,” Janewattananond said. “It just felt right, and I’m grateful for his influence.” Heading into the weekend, Janewattananond’s return to form could make him a serious threat.

Rashid Khan Finds His Swing

India’s Rashid Khan, a two-time Asian Tour winner, has faced challenges this season, struggling with his swing. However, a recent practice breakthrough at the Black Mountain Championship has sparked a turnaround. This week, Khan is showing newfound confidence and consistency on the course.

“I’ve been searching for something in my swing all season, and finally, it clicked,” shared Khan. Despite missing registration for recent events, he utilized his time wisely, focusing on refining his technique in Bangkok last week.

Top Contenders Heading into the Weekend

Among the field’s notable names, John Catlin, currently leading the Asian Tour’s International Series standings, shot an impressive 66, positioning him joint fifth, just six shots behind Lee. Defending champion Gaganjeet Bhullar made the cut after shooting 71, placing him at three under.

The BNI Indonesian Masters, part of the prestigious International Series, offers a $2 million purse, intensifying the competition among top talents across the Asian Tour. As Lee, Janewattananond, and Khan head into the weekend rounds, golf fans can expect an exciting finish to this year’s tournament.