Ernie Els returns to action at the World Golf Championships-HSBC Champions after two weeks sidelined with an ankle injury.
The Open Champion was forced to miss the PGA Grand Slam of Golf in Bermuda after sustaining the knock when he slipped on a tennis court.
However, the South African is keen to get back amongst the birdies at Mission Hills Golf Club’s Olazábal Course, which he believes is in ideal condition for low scoring.
“Yesterday was two weeks since the big fall,” he said. “It's been quite a lot of work.
“I think the fans and the tournament should really enjoy the tournament this week. I think it's going to be a bit of a birdie-fest here and there.
“It's an amazing golf course - they have done amazing things here. It was a very difficult piece of land, and I think what they have done has been amazing.
“There's a lot of elevation changes, so you've got to figure out the yardages; that's going to be a little difficult.
“I think the course is right in front of you, the bunkering is unbelievable. The course is in really good shape, and we have had a lot of rain, so I think scoring is going to be good, too.”
While Els has had plenty of personal success this year with his fourth Major Championship, he has also been thrilled by the progress of young South Africans such as four-time European Tour winner Branden Grace.
“I think South African golf is really in fine shape,” he added. “We have got great programmes, junior programmes, amateur tournaments; we have got good weather and all of that stuff. Young kids they have got no restrictions. They can really go out there and play.”
