There’s an unmistakable zing in the air as the 146^th British Open kicks off at Royal Birkdale today. And all eyes are set on India’s Shiv Kapur and Anirban Lahiri as they look forward to make waves at The Open. It is only the third time that there will be two Indians at the same edition of The Open.

Lahiri is playing his fifth British Open — most by any Indian. He feels he is well prepared for the championships. “I was keeping an eye on where my world ranking was and was doing my own research to see how far it has gone down the list,” Lahiri said. “I was quietly confident, so mentally I was prepared to play this week about a month ago. That’s why I played in Scotland last week with the intention to play this week.”

“I think it is one of the best British Open tracks which I’ve played so far. As the conditions get tougher, it will be a real challenge. I’m really looking forward to it. I’m glad I played in Scotland last week and got some links golf under the belt,” Lahiri said.

“I’m making a lot of birdies and I’m putting good numbers over 18 holes. I seem to have that odd round that I let it go. I got to be really focussed right through the week especially on a course like this. If you lose your focus or confidence, you can let it get away from you. I feel like I’m up for it, " says Lahiri.