Randhawa inspired by Jeev's success

Jyoti Randhawa, inspired by the recent exploits of fellow Indian Jeev Milkha Singh, bulldozed his way into a share of the early lead in the Dubai Desert Classic first round on Thursday.

"Jeev is the first guy that went out and started playing outside India," Randhawa told reporters after pocketing eight birdies to join South African Ernie Els and Jose Manuel Lara of Spain on six-under-par 66 at the Emirates Golf Club.

"He did a great job last year and I try and keep up with him. Every time he plays well he definitely inspires me to play well."

Singh, 35, was the first Indian to qualify for the European Tour and hit top form last year by winning the China Open and the prestigious Volvo Masters at Valderrama.

He also finished number one on the Asian Tour's order of merit

Randhawa said he and Singh enjoyed a friendly rivalry.

"We are best friends off the course but competitors on the course," said the 34-year-old from New Delhi. "I love playing with him and I love playing against him."

Randhawa also loves playing in Dubai.

"There are a lot of Indians, a lot of people, cheering you on and it feels you are actually playing in your own country because every third or fourth person you see is an Indian here," he said.

Last year was Randhawa's first as a full-time player on the European Tour.

"Playing in the wind and rain is something that we are not used to," he said. "Hopefully, with that past experience, I will perform better this year."