Ozaki reckons counterpart will find playing captain role tough going

ASIA are determined to retain the Royal Trophy after a shock victory over Europe last year proved Asian golfers were a force to be reckoned with, says captain Naomichi ‘Joe’ Ozaki.

Ozaki ended a run of two straight defeats to lead Asia to a stunning 10-6 win last time – a victory he says his team can replicate.

“I want to defend the title, I want each of my players to play well for the team and if we do that, we can show the world that Asian golf is getting stronger and stronger,” he said. “We want to prove it and make this happen. My experience on the winning team has given me confidence, I know what to do and I have my strategy.” Ozaki, who enjoyed 32 wins on the Japan Tour as a player, said he was not intimidated by his European counterpart, Colin Montgomerie, who is widely regarded as one of the Ryder Cup’s best performers.

The charismatic 53-year-old said Montgomerie could get more than he bargained for by opting to both play for and captain a side in a matchplay contest where tactics and astute judgment can make all the difference.

“Everyone knows Monty is a great player; he has won so many tournaments and it will be first time for him to be a captain, and at the Ryder Cup,” he said. “But a playing captain will be difficult; you have to focus on your team and focus on the play.

“I’m not sure how he will be able to do that; it will be difficult for Monty.”