It was not Friday the 13th, but going by the way Indians performed at the Avantha Masters, it was no less horrifying a day!

By Abhishek Dinman

Consider this: 32 out of 38 Indians on show stand the risk of failing to make the cut. And let's not forget that we are playing on home soil.

Jeev Milkha Singh, the highest-ranked player at the DLF Golf and Country club, is a case in point. His even-par on Day One was followed by one-over 73 in Round Two on Friday, and Jeev is not a happy man.

He is tied at 79th and has little chance of making the cut. He struggled in his putting and his speed was not right either. He clearly had difficulty in distance control, something he promised on Day One he would work upon.

Clearly, his efforts were not good enough. His sadness also stems from the fact that this was a golden opportunity for Jeev to make a mark in India!

He has never won a tournament in India despite making a mark in Europe and Asia, where he has 15 international titles. The irony is not lost on those who are now used to setting themselves up for disappointment when it comes to Jeev in India.

Jyoti Randhawa, however, is better off! After an even par outing on Thursday, Jyoti returned with an impressive five-under 67 in Round Two and is tied 20th.

He seemed less stressed on the greens on Friday than he was on the opening day and looks very much out of danger. "I think I managed to capitalise on my opportunities today. I focused too much on results yesterday, but today I just wanted to play to my potential," said a gratified Jyoti.

The days ahead will be testing for the hopeful Indian, as the late-afternoon rain is sure to slow down the greens, making the shot-making unpredictable and dicey.

For Gaganjeet Bhullar, his Day 1 performance did not go on to show the way as he went four-over 76 on Friday, and is tied with Jeev at 79th. Amongst other Indians, Shiv Kapur is tied 92nd while Himmat Rai is 110th.

However, Arjun Atwal has shown some promise and stands a good chance of making the cut. He is tied 34th with three-under.

Clearly, all is not well with the Indian challenge.