Dodd is struggling with the heat and humidity in Jakarta

The 39-year-old, out to recapture his fine form of 2004/5, is the top ranked Briton in the field at 92 in the world.

But he has failed to finish in the top 20 in six events this campaign and fears the conditions could hit him.

"Asian players are used to this kind of weather and we are not so they hold a big advantage, it's a totally different experience playing here," said Dodd.

"The greens are totally different to the greens back home, with a lot more grain, but the weather is the main difficulty.

I do not want to view myself as the defending champion when I play, because I don't want to put extra pressure on myself Thaworn Wiratchant

"It is so hot and humid and it's difficult for us to adjust, for me anyway.

"The heat is a big factor and the end result is the fitness involved - and I'm not the fittest at the moment.

"But your year is based on the whole season and not the first month or two."

The Arnold Palmer-designed course in Jakarta has been deluged with rain this week, and the forecast is mixed for the tournament.

Defending champion Thaworn Wiratchant and fellow-Thai Thongchai Jaidee are seen as two of the favourites.

"I do not want to view myself as the defending champion when I play, because I don't want to put extra pressure on myself," said Wiratchant.

"I would like to think I'm just like any other golfer on the field, doing their best - and that's what I'll do."