The Pakistan Open, which is offering $300,000 in total prize money, is the season-opening event of the 2007 Asian Tour season. Photo below is of Englishman Chris Rodgers who was the champion at the 2006 US$200,000 Pakistan Open.

The event became the first of the year after the Philippine Open, initially scheduled for last week, was moved to February due to logistical problems. The Asian Tour is operating at least 29 tournaments this year offering a record $26.5 million in prize money. Over hundred players from USA, England, Switzerland, Sweden, Holland, Ireland, Australia, Japan, Chinese Taipei, Malaysia, Phillipines, Sirilanka and South Africa will contest in this championship. From Pakistan 29 professionals are taking part in the event.

Malaysia’s Ben Leong is hoping to follow in the footsteps of defending champion Chris Rodgers as he aims for a maiden win at the Pakistan Open. India’s Amandeep Johl will also be in search of his elusive first win on the Asian Tour after finishing joint second at last year’s tournament. Mohammad Munir will lead the Pakistani charge and was fired up to impress in front of the local fans. Munir will be flanked by other top local players including Muhammad Shabbir Iqbal, Imdad Hussain, and Mohammad Siddique.