Casey and Poulter aiming for good start
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.
Casey said: “I’ve had a five-week break: a couple of weeks off and then three weeks of practice and playing.
“I think my game could be a bit rusty. It’s been a lot of range golf, so I need to quickly remember how to shoot a number.
“Hopefully it will click very quickly.”
The Surrey golfer had a rollercoaster ride last season, winning early in China, totally losing form over the summer and then coming back to win again back in China in November.
Asked about the Ryder Cup race he said: “I don’t know if there’s more pressure. I think what’s wonderful is there’s so many great players right now on our tour. It will be very difficult, but that’s also an exciting challenge. I’ve got to play extremely good golf to be a part of the next Ryder Cup.
“It’s just another goal in the year, just something that you think in the back of your mind. Even those weeks where you’re struggling a bit you dig deep because you know that every point counts.
