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Montgomerie should zip his mouth: Shiv Kapur

April 09, 2008 17:43 IST

Colin Montgomerie should zip his mouth and play well enough to qualify for the Masters instead of sulking over the Asian players' inclusion in the golf Major, says Shiv Kapur.

Failing to finish among the top 50 and missing a berth in the elite event, Montgomerie was furious after being ignored and three lower-ranked Asian players, including Jeev Milkha Singh, handed a special invitation for the first Major of the year.

The Scot alleged commercial interests drove organisers to induct the trio in the field, which they otherwise could not have done.

Not really amused by Montgomerie's observation, Shiv said, "It's a clear case of sour grapes. Monty should zip his mouth and focus on his own game. He should try to qualify for the Major, instead of blaming players like Jeev."

Shiv went on to claim that Jeev has done more for Indian golf that the Scot, considered one of the best players never to have won a Major, possibly did for his country.

"Jeev has done a lot for the game in the country. I can say that I'm what I'm because of players like him. Can you tell me what he has done for Scotland?" Shiv said.

This would be Jeev's second successive Masters appearance and stands a good chance of notching up a decent finish, reckons Shiv.

"His chances are bright even though it all boils down to how you play over the four days. Your game has to click at the right time. After all, everyone walks out to win," he said.

Shiv launched GolfRite, a new programme for budding golfers by US-based former India athlete Kapoor Singh, who is a certified golf coach these days.

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