British Open: Adam Scott, Shane Lowry and the surprise packages to watch for at Royal Portrush

A look ahead at who could be a surprise contender at the event in Northern Ireland, which begins on Thursday

Adam Scott. The Australian, for some time recognised as one of the game’s most talented players, has been enjoying a resurgence in form following a sustained dip. Scott has not finished worse than tied-17th in his past five starts, which include a tied-8th at the PGA Championship and tied-7th at the US Open. The 2013 Masters champion is proving his major pedigree once more. He really should have a Claret Jug already after letting one slip in 2012 - finished runner-up that year - and has four top 10s in his past seven Open starts. Arrived last week at Portrush, so knows the layout better than most. Reuters

John McAuley

Jul 17, 2019

The 148th British Open tees off at Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland on Thursday, with golf’s oldest major returning there for the first time in 68 years.

Brooks Koepka, Dustin Johnson and home favourite Rory McIlroy are all expected to contend for the title over the four days of action.

We look at five guys outside the favourites who could secure the season’s fourth and final major. And, with it, the famous Claret Jug.

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Rory McIlroy is the pre-tournament favourite to win the British Open but he will be under immense pressure from the home crowd. Press Association

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