Shane Lowry’s comments on the India Championship golf course could spell bad news for Rory McIlroy

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Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry have both decided to play in the DP World Tour India Championship this week.

The new event has also attracted fellow European Ryder Cup winners Tommy Fleetwood and Viktor Hovland.

The biggest talking point ahead of the tournament is that the golf course is completely different from most on the PGA and DP World Tour.

Lowry explained the unusual characteristics of the Delhi Golf Club in his latest press conference, which may not suit his close friend McIlroy.  

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Shane Lowry’s interesting comments on the DP World Tour India Championship course

The Delhi GC is much shorter and has more tree trouble than most PGA or DP World Tour courses.

Accuracy off the tee is crucial, which is why McIlroy revealed that he won’t use his driver until his next tournament in Abu Dhabi.

Lowry complimented the course setup, saying that the best golfer will win rather than the longest hitter.

“I think a course like this will stand the test of time forever. It takes the driver out of your hands,” the Irishman told reporters.

“The guys who hit it over 300 yards can’t use that advantage out here. They’ve got to find an advantage somewhere else.

“I don’t think it suits any one person; it suits the best player. The best player will win the tournament this week. That’s what is great about this golf course.”

Statistics suggest Shane Lowry has a better chance of winning in India than Rory McIlroy

While Lowry did not mention McIlroy, every golf fan knows that he is one of the biggest hitters in the world.

McIlroy’s all-around game is excellent, but there is no doubt that he gains a significant advantage on most players with his driving distance.

However, his distance advantage will be negated by the short course this week, with iron play expected to play a larger role.

Lowry has been the third-best player on the PGA Tour with his irons this season, so he should relish the challenge that Delhi GC provides.

Lowry generally hits the ball closer to the pin than McIlroy from between 150 and 175 yards out, which should be a common approach distance this week.