Hero Indian Open 2026: Casey Jarvis eyes history, calls DLF ideal Masters prep after 64

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Gurugram, March 27: South Africa's Casey Jarvis produced a sensational second-round 64 but still found himself chasing defending champion Eugenio Chacarra, who retained the clubhouse lead at the halfway stage of the Hero Indian Open 2026 in Gurugram on Friday (March 27).

On a brutal DLF Golf and Country Club layout where par is often considered a good score, Jarvis lit up the course with nine birdies in a scintillating eight-under round, marking the best performance of the day. The 22-year-old South African surged up the leaderboard after an opening 73, underlining his red-hot form.

Yet, despite his brilliance, it was Chacarra's consistency - rounds of 67 and 69 - that kept him at the top heading into the weekend.

Jarvis eyes history, Masters boost

Jarvis' stunning climb has put him in contention for a rare milestone on the DP World Tour. Having already enjoyed a rich vein of form - including victory at the South African Open and a runner-up finish at the Joburg Open - he now stands on the brink of three wins in four starts.

A win this week would also make him one of the fastest players to register three victories in a calendar year on the tour. More importantly, Jarvis believes the demanding conditions at DLF offer the perfect build-up to his upcoming appearance at The Masters.

"The greens here are very slopey... Augusta is also very slopey and extremely fast. So it's the perfect preparation," Jarvis said.

His round, which included nine birdies and just one dropped shot, came despite a weather delay that disrupted play. "I can't count the feet of putts I made today, but I know it is a whole lot," he added.

Even his closest rival was impressed.

"Casey put us all today on how to score," Chacarra admitted.

While Jarvis grabbed the headlines, Chacarra once again showcased why he thrives at DLF. The Spaniard's composed 69 ensured he stayed in control despite not being at his absolute best with the putter.

Daffue climbs, Schott slips

Jarvis' compatriot MJ Daffue also continued his impressive run at DLF, climbing to third after a five-under 67, following his recent win on the HotelPlanner Tour in India.

Meanwhile, overnight leader Freddy Schott slipped to tied fourth after a one-over 73, struggling to replicate his opening-day rhythm.

A course that defines champions

The Gary Player-designed DLF Golf and Country Club once again lived up to its reputation, testing every facet of a golfer's game - from precision off the tee to nerve on lightning-fast greens.