Rory McIlroy has broken into the world's top 50 players

Northern Ireland's Rory McIlroy is two shots off the lead after the opening day's play at the weather-affected Abu Dhabi Championship.

McIlroy carded five birdies and a bogey to lie four under par after the 12 holes he finished before close of play.

Play was held up for over two hours after a hailstorm flooded the course.

Johan Edfors and Mikael Lundberg lead after opening rounds of six-under 66 while Ireland's Gary Murphy is three under after completing his round.

Paul McGinley is also three under but, like McIlroy, had to call a halt after 12 holes of his first round.

Damien McGrane is two under after 10 holes while Padraig Harrington is tied for 40th place after a disappointing one-under-par 71.

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