The R&A confirms Walker Cup GB&I team

The R&A has confirmed the Great Britain and Ireland team to face the USA at the Walker Cup next week.

Ten players will head to the States tasked with defeating the Americans in the biennial fixture that is being hosted by Merion Golf Club in Pennsylvania.

Scotland's Wallace Booth and Gavin Dear make the team as does Niall Kearney of Ireland. Leading amateurs from England form the bulk of the team including Liphook's Sam Hutsby and 18-year-old Tommy Fleetwood.     “We have picked a strong team for what will undoubtedly be a tough match,” explained GB Captain, Colin Dalgleish.

“Each player selected has demonstrated their ability to perform at the very highest levels of the amateur game, but, crucially, they have also bonded extremely well.   “I’m convinced that we go to Merion as a tight-knit team with the combination of experience and talent necessary to give ourselves every chance of returning with the trophy.”   Dale Whitnell, Chris Paisley, Eamonn Hodgson, Matt Haines and recent English Amateur champion Luke Goddard make up the rest of the team that will do battle with the USA on September 12-13.

A change of format has been made from previous years, with four foursomes ties to be played each morning, followed by eight singles matches on Saturday afternoon, and ten (previously 8) singles on Sunday afternoon.

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