Sneha Singh receiving winner’s cheque from Mr. Hari Narayan (Captain, BPGC)
The 2023 Hero WPGT Order of Merit leader and last week’s runner-up in Pune, Sneha Singh, shot 68-73-63 (6-under 204) to win the second leg of the season by a shot at BPGC, Mumbai.
Hitaashee Bakshi shot 67-70-68 to finish runner-up at 5-under 205.
In a thrilling golf showdown, Sneha and Hitaashee battled fiercely in separate groups, creating a gripping narrative throughout the day. Despite starting the final round four strokes behind Hitaashee Bakshi, Sneha made a spectacular start with an opening eagle and then a birdie on the third hole.
Hitaashee, leading in the same group just behind Sneha, managed birdies on holes 2, 3, and 6. As they made the turn, Sneha’s 3-under 32 and Hitaashee’s 2-under 33 narrowed the initial gap. Sneha continued her charge on the back nine, levelling the score with Hitaashee after a birdie on the 13th hole and closing the round on 18 with her second eagle, finishing at 6 under for the tournament.
In a dramatic final moment, Hitaashee needed a birdie on the par-5 18th for victory, while a par would force a playoff. However, Hitaashee faltered, dropping a shot and ultimately handing Sneha the win.
The two were tied for second last week behind Nishna in Pune.
Sneha now leads the Order of Merit after the first two legs of the Hero Women’s Pro Golf Tour.
Amateur Nishna Patel, last week’s winner shot 77-64-71 to join Khusi Khanijau 71-70-71 for a tied-4th finish at a total score of 2-over 212.
Low scores like Nishna’s 64 and Sneha’s 63 augur well for the quality of golf being played on the domestic women’s tour this year.
Photo – WGAI