Casey and Poulter aiming for good start

PAUL CASEY and Ian Poulter are hoping to get their 2006 campaigns off to a flying start as the European Tour visits Abu Dhabi this week for the first time.

The presence of Vijay Singh, Sergio Garcia, Colin Montgomerie and Chris DiMarco boosts the world ranking points on offer and Casey and Poulter need them to get back in the top 50 in time for the Masters in April.

There is also the Ryder Cup to think about. Casey is eighth in the standings, but Poulter, who also made his debut in the record-breaking win in Detroit two years ago, is down in 27th spot after a winless 2005.