Jeev recalled for Asia's Royal Trophy

BANGKOK:

Indian golfer Jeev Milkha Singh is back for Asia's 2008 Royal Trophy run after holding his own last year despite a romp by a powerful European side that is seeking a third title in as many attempts.

Singh, 35, plays full-time on the European Tour and joins Asia's previously named Japanese duo of Toru Taniguchi and Hideto Taniahra.

"Both 2006 and 2007 were memorable years for me and victory at the Royal Trophy 2008 would be the perfect start to making next year another one to treasure," Singh said.

The 35-year-old Indian battled back to halve both of his team assignments last year before losing his singles event, aiding in a 12-and-a-half to three-and-a-half thrashing by the Europeans.

Despite the loss, Singh's experience in team competition is proven, having faced the unbeaten European duo of Lee Westwood and Darren Clarke, who were named to the European team on Monday.

"Lee and Darren are obviously the sort of players we need to learn from in order to overcome the Europeans," he said.

"What we need to do is make sure we communicate the way they do. That is the essence of team golf," he added.

The Royal Trophy is inspired by the enormously popular Ryder Cup, where teams from the United States and Europe compete. The event takes places January 11-13 at the Amata Spring Country Club in Bangkok.