Ryder Cup pick Westwood is looking for a good showing in Asia

Westwood, a European wildcard pick, hit form at the Sentosa Golf Club last year and finished second to Australia's world number six Adam Scott.

World number seven Ernie Els, who is still looking for his first win in 2006, is also in the field.

But Northern Ireland's Ryder Cup wildcard Darren Clarke has withdrawn.

Fellow pick Westwood will be looking to answer his critics by a good showing in Singapore.

The Englishman was awarded a Ryder Cup place in preference to Thomas Bjorn despite being below the Dane in the world and Ryder Cup rankings.

It's just a case of getting back those good vibes in my game Ernie Els

But Westwood is confident he can tune up for the match against the Americans with a strong challenge in Singapore.

"I've always enjoyed Asia and played well there," said Westwood, who has won events in Japan, Malaysia and Macau.

"Singapore is one of the few places I am missing a win and if I can play well again, I'll be delighted."

Els is also determined to stake a claim to the title and end his victory drought, which stretches back to last December's Dunhill Championship.

"It's just a case of getting back those good vibes in my game and slotting the swing back into the groove again," said the South African.

"I haven't had the greatest of years but I feel I am finding my form again after my (knee) injury."

New Zealand's 2005 US Open champion Michael Campbell, Japanese number one Shingo Katayama, Thailand's Thongchai Jaidee and Asian Tour Order of Merit leader Jeev Milkha Singh of India are also taking part in the $3m event.