Turnberry, Scotland, July 14: India’s Gaganjeet Bhullar believes he is ready to lead the Indian challenge at this week’s British Open after reigning Asian Tour number one Jeev Milkha Singh withdrew due to a rib injury.

Singh, who was strongly tipped to spearhead the Asian challenge at Turnberry was forced to withdraw from the 138th edition of the British Open after failing to shake off the effects of a persistent rib injury.

Bhullar, who is Singh’s junior by 17 years will now attempt to put Asia on the world map after having played seven practise rounds at the Ailsa Course since his arrival in Turnberry two weeks ago.

“This is the best golf course you can ever think of. The fairways, greens and tees are all in perfect conditions and I know I’m going to enjoy this week,” said Bhullar, who has been billed as one of the hottest young stars to come out of the Asian Tour and is making his debut at the world’s oldest major.

“I’m now the lone Indian in the field this week and definitely more expectations will be on me. It’s a big shoe to fill but mentally I’m ready,” added Bhullar who has his sports psychologist, Dr. Pradeep Aggarwal with him this week.

Meanwhile, Singh who is widely known as the face of modern golf in India, failed to overcome the nagging effects of a rib injury that has been plaguing him for weeks and will be taking the early flight home to recuperate.

“When I went out yesterday to play 18 holes, it was hurting. When I was taking deep breaths, it was also hurting and when that happens, you know it’s back,” said Singh, is widely known as the face of modern golf in India.

Singh is one of Asia’s most decorated players, having won six times on the Asian Tour with an additional four wins recorded in Japan and another two in Europe.

He was hailed as Asia’s brightest hope of welcoming its first major winner this week as his form has been solid with two recent top-10s in Europe while also finishing in fourth at the WGC-CA Championship in Doral, USA earlier this season.

“I’m only 60% fit and I don’t want to play a major championship in that condition. My game is good but I just don’t want to take any chances this week” said the 37-year-old from Chandigarh, who was Asia’s number one in 2006 and 2008.

“I don’t want to play in a tournament for the sake of playing in it but I want to be competing and be in contention. I want to be fit and I’ve always believed in that,” added Singh.

With Bhullar being the sole flag bearer for golf in India this week, Singh hopes that his younger compatriot will now rise up to challenges ahead.

“I told him to play some low shots, try to stay calm and be patient. When I was playing my first major, I was really nervous and I’m sure he’s going to be too. But that’s all part of learning and being a better professional,” said Singh.