Higa strikes back

JGTO number one Kazuki Higa blasted a second-round eight-under-par 64 at the Thailand Classic on Friday to move three strokes behind halfway-stage leader Rafa Cabrera Bello of Spain.

Playing at the Amata Spring Country Club in Chonburi, the 27-year-old recorded eight birdies in his bogey-free scorecard to add to his opening round of 70.

Starting from the 10th tee, Higa didn't have to wait too long to make his first gain on the 11th.

It wasn't until the 17th before he was able to notch his second, which charged his game to life.

He birdied seven out of the remaining 11 holes to reach 10-under overall and put himself in a decent position to push for a maiden DP World Tour title.

Higa, who's now in a share of the third spot, said: "I made more putts than yesterday, both short and long ones.

"The speed of the greens was different than yesterday. It was easier to deal with.

"And following the extra hours spent at the driving range, I was also hitting it straight and comfortably.

"It's definitely a good position to be where I am now. According to the weather forecast, the wind is going to pick up on Sunday, so it's imperative I try to post another good score tomorrow."

Takumi Kanaya was the other in-form Japanese of the day when he carded a 67 to sit joint 29th and eight shots off the pace.

“My shots were good today, and the same goes with my putting. I hope I can keep the birdies coming and shoot low for the next two days,” said Kanaya.

Masahiro Kawamura, the best-placed Japanese in the opening round, had a day to forget when he battled to a 74 and missed the cut by one shot, which was set at three-under.

Taiga Semikawa also suffered early exit following a 76 to finish with a disappointing four-over 148.