Dubai and Riviera

At the Northern Trust Open, Steve Stricker is the runaway leader holding a 5 shot lead with 4 holes to play in his 3rd round. Runner up last season at Riviera, Stricker will be looking to close out and go one better this year at the rain-soaked event. In the back of his mind, will be his final round meltdown at the 2009 Bob Hope Classic, where he took a 5 shot lead into the final round only to implode and shoot 77 and fall down the leaderboard with Pat Perez eventually running out winner. A win this week for Stricker, and he could jump to World Number 2, subject to the play of Phil Mickelson.

Impressive is the play of 18 year old Japanese superstar, Ryo Ishikawa. 4 wins last season of the Japanese Tour, Ishikawa is currently in a tie for 12th and will be looking to sneak into the top 10 (which would lead to a handy payday for Batesy).

We're set for a close finish in the Dubai Desert Classic with four players sharing the lead heading into the final round. Westwood one of the four players sharing the lead, has vowed to take an aggressive approach into Sunday, and would have to be the best chance to claim the title following his Order of Merit win in Europe last season. The two Spaniards, Qurios and Jiminez both play the game in contrasting styles, however both have the ability to make plenty of birides. Thailand's Thongchai Jaidee the 2nd Round leader, still shares the lead, and has looked in control all week. Don't discount Irish wonderkid Rory McIlroy 2 shots off the lead and Martin Kaymer at 4 shots back.

Hopefully Oliver Wilson, currently tied 19th can hold his spot inside the top 25 and get his season going looking forward to the Ryder Cup later in the year. Also impressive is the play of talented Italian teenage amateur Matteo Manassero who at 4 under par holds down a tie for 15th place.