Date switch for World Matchplay at Wentworth

THE World Matchplay at Wentworth will be held earlier than ever next season - on September 15-18.

With 13 players - Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson and Sergio Garcia among them - this year turning down the chance to win £1million, the biggest first prize in golf, it will be hoped that the new date brings a better response.

Ernie Els achieved a record-breaking sixth title two weeks ago and as the defending champion is guaranteed a place in the 16-strong field.

The Irish Open is another event to move its place in 2005. Instead of following the Open in July, it is being held at the Colin Montgomerie-designed Carton House near Dublin on May 19-22 - the week before the Volvo PGA.

That slot has been held by the Deutsche Bank-SAP Open, but that trades places with the Irish Open.

A venue has yet to be announced for the British Masters, held for the last two years at the Forest of Arden.