Van Zyl carded an opening round of five under par 67 to share fifth with England’s Robert Rock and Australia’s Richard Green.

Van Zyl sunk six birdies with his only blemishing being a bogey on the 1st.

The ever calm Van Zyl says yesterday’s round was one of his best at Wentworth.

“This is by far the best I’ve ever played it conditions wise. I think we’re in for another good one tomorrow and then hurricane Betty is on its way for the weekend.

“I’m really chuffed. I think it’s my personal best around here.

“It’s one of those golf courses that just doesn’t let up. I got off to a nice start – four-under through 12 – and you get 13, 14 and 15 and it’s a couple of really rough holes there.”

The defending champion, Luke Donald of England, was among the early leaders with a solid opening round of four under par 68.

Australia’s Scott Hend, South Korea’s Y.E. Yang, and Joost Luitens of the Netherlands impressed with seven under par to hold a one stroke lead over the Masters champion, Danny Willett.

Morgan Piek/OFM News

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