Langer gives Irish prospects of Ryder Cup captaincy a lift

THE prospects of an Irish captain for the European team in the 2006 Ryder Cup at The K-Club may improve given the precedent set by Bernhard Langer for the September clash with the Americans at Oakland Hills.

Much and all as one would have liked to see Des Smyth or Christy O'Connor Junior at the helm in two years time, it appeared reasonable that the leader should be an individual in touch with the many young players sure to be pushing for places.

O'Connor will be 58 in two years time while Smyth will be 54. That means they would not have competed on the regular tour for eight and four years respectively and accordingly would be out of contact with younger players like Paul Casey, Justin Rose, Ian Poulter and others likely to push for places.