Bhullar hopes to clinch Order of Merit title

Having made a flying start to the new season, rising Indian golfer Gaganjeet Bhullar has now set his sights on challenging for the prestigious Asian Tour Order of Merit crown.

The 21-year-old triumphed at the season-opening Asian Tour International in Bangkok on Sunday, coming from six shots back to win with a closing 64 and said his confidence was now sky high.

"I'll try to win the Order of Merit this year. This win has put me in a good frame of mind but I'll need to win the big events which will be the goal for the rest of the year," said Bhullar, who sits on top the first Order of Merit for 2010 after bagging $47,550 for his win in Bangkok.

India has produced three Order of Merit champions with the pride of place going to Jeev Milkha Singh, who has won the accolade twice, Arjun Atwal and Jyoti Randhawa.

Bhullar underscored his immense talent at the Suwan Golf and Country Club to produce a scintillating course record on the last day. His four-day total of 11-under 277 was a stroke better than runner-up Hwang Inn-choon of Korea.

While Bhullar was delighted with his victory, he admitted that luck played a role in his triumph as overnight leader Kiradech Aphibarnrat of Thailand faltered with a final round 73.

"I'm glad and I'm lucky that it came my way. Starting the day, I thought Kiradech was going to win as he's a great talent and a good ball striker. I guess I'm lucky the golfing gods were with me," said the Indian.

"I feel amazing. I have no words to describe, I'm totally speechless. When I woke up this morning (Sunday), I just wanted to shoot a good number. I never ever thought I am going to shoot a 64 and win by one. It's like a dream coming true. My first event of the year and winning at the start of the year will give me a lot of confidence."

All eyes will now be on this week's Euro 1.5 million Avantha Masters which is tri-sanctioned between the Asian Tour, European Tour and Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI).

The event starts at the DLF Golf and Country Club on Thursday.