Erlandsson (right) equalled the Belfry's old Ryder Cup layout record

Martin Erlandsson produced a dazzling display from the turn to lead after the first round of the British Masters.

The Swede came home in seven-under 29 to set a new course record of 63 at the revamped Belfry near Birmingham.

That left the 33-year-old two ahead of compatriot Jarmo Sandelin and South Africa's Richard Sterne.

Britain's Ian Poulter was tied in sixth after an opening 67, along with fellow Englishman Simon Khan. Sandy Lyle was in a group tied at four-under.

Only two under after 11 holes, Erlandsson eagled the long third, birdied the 442-yard next and then in the fading light closed with four more birdies thanks to putts of 14, 25, 10 and 10ft.

I'm just going along for the ride, trying to put a little white ball in the hole A relaxed Rory McIlroy after his first round as a professional

"That's definitely the toughest stretch, so I'm really pleased," he said.

"It has got to be the best round of my career. I don't think I missed a single shot. I was really spot-on with my swing."

It matched the score of Eamonn Darcy back in 1983, but the Brabazon course has been lengthened since then and so Erlandsson's effort will stand as a new course record.

"My card is secure for this year (he was third in the Johnnie Walker Championship earlier this month), so it's a very different game," he added.

"I'm more relaxed and can enjoy playing. It's a good feeling."

Northern Ireland's Rory McIlroy shot an impressive three-under 69 on his professional debut, after making a big impact at this year's Open.

"If I can play the way I did today there's no reason why I wouldn't think I can be up there going into Sunday," said the 18-year-old.