SERI KEMBANGAN: Newly turned professional golfer Khavish Varadan headed into the weekend on a high note after continuing his strong form at the IRS Prima Malaysian Open today.
Khavish, who fired a seven-under 64 yesterday, backed it up with a six-under 65 in the second round today for a two-day 13-under 129 at The Mines Resort and Golf Club here.
It saw Khavish sharing the overall lead with Australian Kevin Yuan who fired a seven-under 64 today.
American John Catlin was third overall, a shot adrift from the leading duo.
South Korea's Koh Guntaek, Philippines' Miguel Tabuena and England's Steve Lewton are tied-fourth on a two-day 11-under 131.
Khavish, who has spent almost a decade living in the United States, is excited about his progress at the tournament.
"Obviously, it feels great to be in contention. I am a Malaysian and the national open is like another major to me. I am excited for the weekend," said Khavish, 23, who turned professional last month.
"It went according to plan today, although it wasn't the easiest of rounds.
"The wind was swirling a bit and I was struggling with some numbers, but I was striking the ball really good.
"I stayed patient and was trying to birdie one every three holes. I did exactly that, so I am pretty pleased with myself."
Khavish went bogey free the whole day and managed six birdies, three each on the front and back nines.
Ervin Chang, who carded a commendable nine-under 62 today, is joint seventh (two-day 132) alongside South Korea's Kim Yeongsu, Canada's Richard T. Lee and Thailand's Jazz Janewattananond.
Catlin, who shot six-under 65 for the second day in a row, was also pleased with his form.
"It is always nice when you can keep bogeys off the scorecard. (I) made a 12-footer on the last (hole) to stay bogey free," Catlin said.
"I am just glad all the work that I am putting in is starting to pay off. I am starting to play better golf and am starting to get back in the mix."
It was, however, a tough day for Gavin Green, who picked up six bogeys to card a five-over 76 today. Gavin (two-day 140) thus missed the cut for the weekend.
Gavin ended the first round yesterday tied-fourth with Khavish.
Besides Khavish and Ervin, Kim Leun Kwang — tied-50th on a two-day 137 — was the only other Malaysian to make the cut.