Chiragh Kumar opened with a round of one-under 71 to be placed tied 29th in the first round of the weather-hit Thongchai Jaidee Foundation golf tournament here today.
Chiragh, who got himself tournament fit after a long gap during the summer months, when there were no events, has planned a few Asian Development appearances.
Also in the field are Himmat Rai (72) in tied 33rd and Feroze Ali (75) in tied 53rd.
Tournament host Thongchai Jaidee produced a 68 to lie two shots back in tied-sixth position while playing partner and reigning ADT Order of Merit champion Pavit Tangkomolprasert posted a 70 to grab a share of 23rd place.
Young talent William Sjaichudin of Indonesia opened with a sizzling six-under-par 66 to share the clubhouse lead with local veteran Prayad Marksaeng. The 24-year-old Indonesian nailed seven birdies against a lone bogey to match the efforts of nine-time Asian Tour winner Prayad, who returned with a blemish-free round highlighted by six birdies, in the approximately USD 111,808 Asian Development Tour (ADT) event.
The leading duo holds a one-shot advantage over local prospects Pannakorn Uthaipas, Thitiphun Chuayprakong and Singapore's Lam Chih Bing, who shared third place following identical 67s, at the Black Mountain Golf Club.
Prayad, who has claimed four titles this year including a win on the Asian Tour, took advantage of the relatively calm morning conditions to extend his fine form.
Thunderstorms in the afternoon had forced play to be suspended at 3.25pm local time before officials subsequently abandoned play at 4.45pm due to continuous rain.
All 78 players from the afternoon session, including Thai stars Kiradech Aphibarnrat, Thaworn Wiratchant and Prom Meesawat, will have to return to the Black Mountain Golf Club at 7am tomorrow to complete their opening rounds.
