Confident Lahiri looks at comfort factor

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His transition from a rookie to a talent to watch out for has been smooth and studded with two Asian Tour wins. One of the hottest golfers on the Indian circuit, Anirban Lahiri has, however, returned a mixed bag this season. Having had a happy baptism at the British Open this year where, with a tied 31st finish he emerged the best Asian, Lahiri has grown in confidence and is keen to impress on a course which is like second home.
Sharing his excitement of playing at home, the 25-year-old who moved to the city eight years ago said, “I’m very comfortable pla­ying here. It is nice to be back home and good to be sleeping in your own bed and playing a tournament. It doesn’t happen often and it’s a first time for me, especially on the Asian Tour.”
Having been a regular on the course, Lahiri feels the comfort factor will be a huge morale booster.
“It is a huge confidence bo­oster because I’ve pla­yed well here and won (many) tournaments. I’ve scored well here even when I haven’t hit my best and I’m coming into the week with that sort of history behind me. Hopefully, I’ll hit it better as the week progresses and the score should be there. I’m comfortable with the greens and the golf course is in fantastic shape. I’m looking at a potentially positive week,” he said.
Playing at home also comes with the price of overbearing expectations, but Lahiri, who practices yoga for mental strength is looking to revel in the home support. “I know there are going to be a lot of eyes on me and frankly I welcome that. It is going to be a proud week for me because all my friends are going to be here and all the people I play and practice with. My mother is here as well. So there is going to be a lot of local support. I’m just looking at putting my best foot forward and putting tog­ether a good four days.”