Nine former champions have been confirmed in the field for this week's Joburg Open that will be played at the Houghton Golf Club.

The annual event is co-sanctioned by the Sunshine Tour as well as DP World Tour and England's Dan Bradbury is defending champion.

Bradbury is back to defend his title, while some of the former champions that will be in action include Thriston Lawrence, Branden Grace, Darren Fichardt and Charl Schwartzel.

Schwartzel, who won back-to-back titles in 2010 and 2011 said the event is a special one for him.

“I saw some highlights of them showing my win in 2011 and I almost didn’t recognise myself. I was so skinny back then, but the swing looked really good,” said Schwartzel.

“Johannesburg has always been special to me. I’ve had good success in this area and especially at the Joburg Open, so I decided to make a comeback here and I’m excited about it.”

The Joburg Open tees off on Thursday morning.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport