The Open Championship, St Andrews, 15-18 July
Coverage: Live on BBC TV, Red Button, BBC Sport website, with updates on BBC Radio 5 live Full coverage details

Khan is currently ranked number 110 in the world

With rain and wind expected at this year's Open the Old Course at St Andrews could prove more challenging than usual, says Simon Khan.

The Epping golfer, 37, has assessed the course on a practice round in preparation for his fifth Open appearance on Thursday.

He told BBC Essex: "It's playing a bit softer than normal and there's been heavy rain and quite strong winds.

"The course is certainly going to get a bit softer now."

This year's surprise PGA Championship winner is not getting his excuses in early though and insists there is plenty of scope to play good shots over the four days.

"I think they're trying to dry it out to bring the bounce and get more links-type golf into play," he added.

"Whatever way the wind's blowing there's always a way of playing every hole.

"People talk about bad bounces and breaks but there's always a spot to land the ball on."

Khan's best Open finish was 31st at Royal Liverpool in 2006 but this is his third appearance in the competition at St Andrews.

"I've played two Opens here, 2000 and 2005," he said.

"I love the course and I feel like I'm swinging well again.

"You can't play this course enough, it's all about experience around here."

The Englishman gets his tournament underway at 1236 BST, teeing off with Fiji's Vijay Singh and American Scott Verplank.

"I've played with Vijay once before and he's fine," said Khan

"Scott I haven't played with before but it doesn't matter really who you play with, you've got to get on with your job."

The trio play their second round at 0725 BST on Friday.

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