The Golf Outsider: HSBC Golf Championship

A high quality field has assembled in the desert for the HSBC Golf Championship. World number 1 Rory McIlroy heads the betting at 19/4 (Sportingbet), with Tiger Woods (15/2 Betfred) out to prove a point after being usurped at Nike.

With nothing much new to learn about the top two, our long shots expert turns his attention to the less heralded players in the field.

Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship Selections

For many the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship marks the start of their season; it is therefore difficult to gauge their form or any signs of rustiness. There are no such worries for Scott Jamieson; in the last two months he has finished 1-T3-2. Last week he threw away a five shot lead in South Africa but played well enough to get that lead in the first place. He is overpriced given his form.
Recommended Bet: Scott Jamieson at 100.0 (Betfair)

In his third year on the European Tour, Jaco Van Zyl has proved a quick learner.  In 2012, he enjoyed five top-10 finishes including a respectable T24 in Abu Dhabi. That was the first time he played the course and after an opening round of 75, he recovered well to play Friday to Sunday in eight-under.  If he gets a better start this year he could be a lively outsider.
Recommended Bet: Jaco Van Zyl at 360.0 (Betfair)

Gonzalo Fernandez-Castano is a triple figure price and that looks big for a player who has won on tour in six of the last eight seasons. He finished the 2012 season with a very respectable T9 in the Tour Championship, up against an elite field. He faces many of the same people in Abu Dhabi but at a much bigger price.
Recommended Bet: Gonzalo Fernandez-Castano at 180.0 (Betfair)