Compared to the discomfort he experienced a year ago, Augusta National chairman Billy Payne looked a picture of relaxation as he answered questions from the media this week following his annual State of the Masters address.

More players will make the halfway cut in the Masters this year after Augusta National chairman Billy Payne announced changes to the system used for 50 years.

One of Ireland’s Masters contingent this week will be Alan Dunbar, using his exemption as British Amateur champion.

Augusta National’s decision to have women members for the first time inevitably means the spotlight will fall even more now on the Royal and Ancient Club, golf’s ruling body for most of the world.

For the first time in its 80-year history, Augusta National Golf Club has female members.