Commercialbank Qatar Masters preview

An impressive field lines up for the second European Tour event in the Middle East and judging by previous years Ernie Els will be the man to beat.

TOURNAMENT: The Commercialbank Qatar Masters

HOST COURSE: Doha GC, Qatar

PRIZE FUND: $2,200,000

COURSE DETAILS: Par 72, 7355. Water plays a major role on this Peter Harradine-designed course, coming into play on six holes. The course does not play as long as the yardage would suggest but if the wind gets up on this exposed layout low scoring is no guarantee.

The European Tour's second of three events in the Middle East sees the most impressive field in the history of the Qatar Masters. 2005 champion Ernie Els heads the line up and with four victories in the region since 1994 he will be looking to continue his success in this part of the world. Henrik Stenson is another who seems to enjoy these surroundings, he continued his fine form last year with victory in this event. He will face strong competition from world number eight Retief Goosen, Qatar debutant Michael Campbell and Spanish wizard Sergio Garcia.

As well as the incentive of record prize money, a $150,000 26-foot luxury cruiser will go to the first player to hole his tee-shot at the par 3 17th.

CONTENDERS: Ernie Els, Henrik Stenson, Retief Goosen

BETTING GUIDE: For a betting tips from our expert Paul Krishnamurty click here

Paul joined Golf Monthly in 2006 in a junior role and has since worked as senior staff writer and now as technical editor. He writes equipment and instruction content and tests the vast majority of golf clubs that are introduced every year.